The Ski Blog

Chalets Direct… ain’t no mountain high enough

Ski holidays & summer holidays in the mountains

  • Don’t Hit the Slopes Without Tuned Skis: Here’s why…

    The Importance of Skiing on Well-Tuned Skis

    Mikaela Shiffrin
    © GoranJakus | Dreamstime.com

    Understanding the Tuning Process — and How It Transforms Performance, Safety, and Feel

    This weekend sees the first slalom races of the FIS Ski World Cup in Levi, Finland. Mikaela Shiffrin will be hoping to bring home her 102nd World Cup victory. In the men’s event on Sunday, there are four British competitors – Dave Ryding, Laurie Taylor, Billy Major and making his debut, Luca Carrick-Smith. Conditions are likely to be bullet-proof ice.

    When you watch great skiers their skiing looks effortless. They carve cleanly, release smoothly, and seem glued to the snow yet free to flow.

    What many recreational skiers don’t realise is that a big part of that magic doesn’t just come from the skier — it comes from the tuning.

    Tuning is the invisible art that transforms a ski from an unwieldy plank into a precise, responsive instrument.
    Let’s look at what ski tuning really involves, and how each step changes how your skis perform and feel under your feet.

    🔧 1. Base Flattening — The Foundation of Predictability

    What it is:
    Over time, the base of a ski becomes uneven from wear, pressure, or stone damage. Flattening involves lightly grinding the ski base to ensure it’s perfectly flat and smooth.

    Why it matters:
    A flat base ensures even edge engagement — both edges contact the snow equally.
    If one side is higher or lower, your ski will wander or hook unpredictably.

    How it feels on snow:
    ✅ Predictable tracking
    ✅ Smooth glide
    ✅ Stable platform underfoot

    A ski that’s base-flat gives you that “on rails” feeling when carving.

    🧊 2. Base Edge Bevel — The Art of Release

    What it is:
    Technicians slightly bevel (angle) the edge that runs along the ski base, typically 0.5° to 1°.

    Why it matters:
    Without this, skis would feel grabby and hard to release from a turn.
    That small bevel helps the ski roll onto the edge smoothly, giving the skier control over when and how grip begins.

    How it feels on snow:
    ✅ Smooth edge engagement
    ✅ Easier turn initiation
    ✅ Confidence in variable snow

    If your skis feel “catchy,” your base bevel is likely too small or inconsistent.

    ⚙️ 3. Side Edge Sharpening — The Engine of Grip

    What it is:
    The side of the ski edge is sharpened to a specific angle — often between 88° and 86° depending on preference and terrain.

    Why it matters:
    This is what gives your ski bite on hardpack and ice.
    Sharper side edges cut cleanly into snow, allowing precise carving and better control on steeps.

    How it feels on snow:
    ✅ Secure grip on ice and firm snow
    ✅ More power with less effort
    ✅ Stable, confident carving

    When the side edges go dull, your ski starts to slide when you want it to hold — the most common cause of defensive, back-seat skiing.

    🪶 4. Detuning Tips and Tails — The Secret of Smoothness

    What it is:
    After sharpening, the tips and tails are lightly dulled (detuned).

    Why it matters:
    This prevents the ski from catching at the start or end of turns.
    It lets the ski flow naturally through transition instead of grabbing.

    How it feels on snow:
    ✅ Easier turn entry and exit
    ✅ No sudden edge catches
    ✅ Fluid, rhythmic skiing

    Over-detuning, however, can make a ski feel vague — so precision matters.

    🩶 5. Base Structure — The Glide Factor

    What it is:
    After flattening, a subtle pattern is cut into the base. This structure helps channel water away as you glide, much like tire treads.

    Why it matters:
    Different patterns work better in different temperatures and snow conditions — fine for cold, coarse for wet.

    How it feels on snow:
    ✅ Faster glide
    ✅ Smoother feel at speed
    ✅ Consistent performance in all conditions

    It’s the difference between dragging and flying.

    🕯️ 6. Waxing — The Final Polish

    What it is:
    Wax is ironed into the base and then scraped and brushed smooth.
    The wax fills micro-pores in the base, reducing friction.

    Why it matters:
    It’s not just about speed — waxing protects the base and keeps the ski lively.
    A dry, unwaxed ski feels sticky and slow.

    How it feels on snow:
    ✅ Effortless glide
    ✅ Quieter ski/snow contact
    ✅ Easier transitions between turns

    🧭 7. Binding Check — The Safety Connection

    What it is:
    Bindings are checked for correct release settings (DIN), boot compatibility, and mounting security.

    Why it matters:
    Even the best-tuned ski is useless if the binding doesn’t release properly.
    It’s part of the FIS Safety Code’s core principle: equipment must function correctly to reduce injury risk.

    🏁 The Result: Tuned Skis = Safe, Accurate Skiing (SAS)

    When every element of tuning is done properly, your skis communicate directly with the snow.
    You feel confident, smooth, and in control. The ski becomes an extension of your body — not something you’re fighting against.

    Tuned skis:

    • Track predictably

    • Grip when you ask

    • Release when you want

    • Glide effortlessly

    They let you ski accurately — and accuracy is what keeps skiing both safe and enjoyable.

    Tuning skis
    Living on the edge

    🧠 SAS Takeaway

    • Make sure your skis are tuned regularly.

    • Keep your edges sharp and bases waxed.

    • Understand what your edges and base are telling you.

    Skiing on tuned skis isn’t just faster — it’s safer, smoother, and infinitely more satisfying.
    Safe Accurate Skiing starts at the edge.

  • Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback – Winter Olympics 2026

    Lindsey Vonn’s Comeback — An Inspiration for Every Skier

    When Lindsey Vonn announced her intention to return to competition last year, the ski world collectively raised an eyebrow. Last winter had ups and downs for her, but she ultimately found her way to second place in the super-G race at the Stifel Sun Valley World Cup Finals in Sun Valley, Idaho, on March 23, 2025.

    Now, at 41 years old, Vonn has worked exceptionally hard on and off the snow and has gained 12 pounds of muscle. She has proved the naysayers wrong who dismissed her because of her age and partial knee replacement. She is looking fitter and stronger than ever. Her passion for performance is as deep as it was in her 20’s. She will be competing for the USA, once again, in the 2026 Winter Olympics, in the Super-G, Downhill and team combined events taking place in Cortina d’Ampezzo next February.

    It’s not just a comeback story — it’s a reminder that skiing can be a lifelong pursuit and source of joy.

    🏔️ A New Definition of “Peak”

    In sport, we often talk about peaking early. But Vonn’s story flips that idea. She’s showing that “peak” can be redefined — not as a single moment, but as a series of evolutions.

    Skiing rewards knowledge, not just youth. Years on the snow teach balance, body awareness, and the art of timing — qualities that need not fade with age.

    Dave Ryding - GB slalom skier
    Dave Ryding

    Just take a look at Britain’s Dave Ryding – a skier whose skill and precision has always been admired, and who will be competing in slalom at age 38. This will be his 5th Olympic Games.

    At Chalets Direct, every winter, we see guests in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond, skiing beautifully, often better than ever. Why? Because experience, fitness, and good technique can last a lifetime.

    💪 Stronger, Smarter, Safer

    Lindsey’s physical transformation — adding muscle, training with precision, focusing on recovery — mirrors a truth all skiers can embrace:

    The stronger and more accurate you ski, the longer you can ski.

    That’s the core idea behind Safe Accurate Skiing (SAS) — a movement that values technique, control, and understanding over reckless speed.
    Watching Vonn carve at full power reminds us that great skiing isn’t about pushing limits blindly — it’s about mastering your craft and respecting the mountain.

    Explore more about SAS and how elite skiers like Paul Lorenz, Harald Harb, Nina Gigele, and Tom Gellie champion the same principles in their teaching and skiing.
    Read more about Safe Accurate Skiing →

    🎿 Skiing Is a Lifelong Sport

    Vonn’s comeback isn’t just for prime athletes — it’s for all of us who love practising wintersports.

    Maybe you’ve thought:

    • “I’m not as fit as I used to be.”
    • “My turns aren’t as smooth as they once were.”
    • “Maybe my best ski days are behind me.”

    Her story says the opposite: your best skiing could still be ahead.
    With the right approach — smart training, proper instruction, and respect for safety — you can keep improving, season after season.

    If that idea excites you, start planning now.
    Find a resort where you can train, recharge, and rediscover your rhythm.

    Find your perfect base with Chalets Direct →

    🌍 Where Inspiration Meets Adventure

    Across the Alps, we’ve seen a quiet trend building: people booking training-focused ski weeks, not just holidays.
    There are more and more ski schools which offer something more than the “traditional” ski school options – such as smaller group sizes and clinics focusing on specific areas of technique. Take a look at the options available with TDCSki, Warren Smith Ski Academy and BASS – to name just a few. If you run ski coaching courses that are appropriate please let us know.

    Vonn (and Ryding) prove that with the right approach you can ski better and for longer.

    It’s a natural fit for this new era — inspired by athletes like Lindsey Vonn, guided by technique, and powered by passion.

    💬 Your Turn

    How has skiing changed for you over the years?
    Do you feel stronger, more aware, more connected to the sport than before? Let us know in the comments.

    Chalets Direct

    Connecting passionate skiers with the mountains — for life.

  • The Pros of Early Season Ski Holidays

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    It’s November! It’s just weeks until the start of the ski season. Many ski resorts will be open by the end of the month.

    For example, Kitzbuhel opens up this weekend, Nov 7th, and Ischgl  and Saalbach follow suit on Nov 27th and 28th respectively. In France, Tignes and some of the Three Valleys areas open up Nov 22nd, Alpe d’Huez and Les Deux Alpes on Nov 29th. Many Andorran resorts also open up on Nov 29th. (Take a look at this excellent list compiled by Snowbrains).

    Many more will be opening on Dec 6th, and more on Dec 13th. This means that there’s a lot of choices for a pre-Christmas ski break. If you’ve never considered skiing before Christmas, here’s a few tips and pointers that might just change your mind.

    1. Quiet resorts and pistes:

    If you’ve only ever been able to ski during busy weeks you will be amazed at how pleasant skiing can be when there’s nobody around. Lift queues are short to non-existent and pistes can be wide open spaces rather than busy arteries, especially during the week. Weekends, as always, will attract locals but come Monday morning they’ll be back at work.

    2. It’s Cheaper

    Early season skiing is often cheaper. Chalet companies are opening up and offering great deals to get people to come out – just check out these early season offers from Chalets Direct members. A week in a catered chalet before Christmas can be just a fraction of the price after Christmas. It’s a great way for them to get the operation going, and for their chalet staff to get into a routine before the peak weeks of Xmas and New Year.

    Lift companies will often open up with reduced price passes – not all the ski area may be ready for opening, but they still want to encourage people to come and ski, and with the smaller number of people on the mountain there’s still plenty of space for everyone.

    3. Re-Discover your Ski Legs

    Early season skiing, when you have the piste to yourself, is a great way to get back into the skiing groove. There’s less pressure and you’ll be able to feel those turns and practice those moves without the fear that comes with having to dodge other skiers.

    4. Avoid the Christmas Overkill for a few days

    Are you tired of the endless Christmas tunes playing in all the stores? You’ve seen the M&S and John Lewis Christmas adverts a million times already? And even though it’s only just been Hallowe’en, you’d think that Christmas is happening tomorrow!

    Escape it all for a few days – it will still be there when you get back. What better way to forget it than getting to the top of a mountain, breathing in the mountain air, clicking into your bindings and sliding away into the great outdoors!

    Possible Downsides – there are some!

    Of course there are some caveats. The full ski area may not be open – but this will be reflected in the price of the lift pass. There may be fewer amenities available, and perhaps some bars and restaurants will still be preparing for opening and not quite ready for the very first guests.

    Snow, of course, may be less plentiful than later in the season, but whenever possible resorts will have the snow cannons pumping overnight to ensure that snow cover is sufficient. With the heavy snow that fell in late October, many of the higher, glacial resorts already have a great base.

    If you’re expecting the hustle and bustle of the peak weeks you won’t find it. However this is part of the charm. You’ll be experiencing the calm time before the holidays really kick in. The bars and restaurants that are open will be pleased to see you and under less pressure than in peak times.

    The Upside!

    At Chalets Direct HQ we’ve always been big fans of getting on the slopes as early as possible. There’s little that can match the feeling of doing your first runs before the crowds descend on the resort. It takes the pressure off those first few turns where everything feels a little unfamiliar and by the time everyone else arrives, you’ll be skiing with confidence!

    Here’s what early season skiing can look like! Tempted? Take a look at our early season ski offers here!

  • Ski Holidays in Italy – The Monterosa Ski Area

    Monterosa Ski area

    Italian ski holidays in Alpe di Mera & Alagna – The Soul of the Monterosa Ski Area

    Looking for a different destination for your ski holidays in Italy?
    Hidden on the southern slopes of the Italian Alps lies one of Europe’s most authentic and awe-inspiring ski destinations. Alpe di Mera and Alagna, part of the Monterosa Ski area, offers over 180 km of pisted runs and a world of off-piste adventure.
    Linked with Gressoney and Champoluc, this vast region stretches across three valleys — each with its own personality — and all accessible on the same ski pass. Yet despite its scale, Monterosa Ski remains one of the Alps’ best-kept secrets.
    If you’ve skied the big-name resorts and are looking for something more soulful, more Italian, and less commercial, this could be your next mountain destination.

    A Place Where Time Moves Slower — in the Best Way

    Alagna and Alpe di Mera aren’t about rushing from one crowded piste to another. They’re about the rhythm of the mountains, the quiet crunch of snow under your skis, and the incredible views of Monte Rosa’s 4,600m peaks.
    Alagna Valsesia is often called the “Freeride Capital of the Alps” — a mecca for serious skiers who value challenge and wild beauty. But what’s remarkable is that even if you’re not a freerider, the entire area still feels untouched and genuine.
    Alpe di Mera, just across the valley, brings a gentler side. Its wide, sun-soaked slopes look directly toward Monte Rosa — one of the most spectacular panoramas in Italy. It’s family-friendly, calm, and refreshingly free of the rush that defines so many Alpine resorts.

    180km of Slopes, 3 Valleys, 1 Spirit

    Your Monterosa Ski pass opens up three full valleys — Alagna, Gressoney, and Champoluc — linked by efficient modern lifts.
    Here’s what makes each special:
    • Alagna Valsesia: Rustic charm and legendary freeride routes, including access to Punta Indren at 3,275m. No neon lights, no fast food — just real mountains.
    • Gressoney: The central hub. Great snow reliability, long, flowing red runs, and the perfect base for exploring in both directions.
    • Champoluc: The most developed and sociable of the trio, with a relaxed après-ski scene, elegant hotels, and beautiful woodland runs.
    This is a ski area where you can carve perfect pistes in the morning, explore hidden descents in the afternoon, and still be sipping espresso in a wooden rifugio by 3pm.

    Italian Soul, Alpine Heart

    Unlike many big ski areas, Monterosa has kept its Italian heart intact. Prices are reasonable, food is exceptional, and service feels personal. Expect to pay a fraction of what you would in France or Switzerland.
    Lunch might be homemade pasta with wild mushrooms and a glass of Nebbiolo, eaten while gazing at Monte Rosa’s ice cliffs. Dinner might be a quiet trattoria in Alagna, where the owner knows every guest by name.
    This is skiing without the gloss — but full of quiet and classic style.

    Why It’s Worth the Effort

    Alagna and Alpe di Mera take a little more effort to reach — about 1.5-2 hours from Milan or Turin — but that’s exactly why they’ve stayed special. You won’t find mass-market tour groups here. You’ll find space, character, and a sense of discovery.
    Come here if you:
    • Crave empty pistes and endless views.
    • Value authentic Italian mountain life.
    • Want real skiing, not resort hype.
    • Prefer connection over crowding.
    It’s the kind of place that stays with you — where the mountains feel bigger, the silence feels deeper, and every turn feels earned.

    Where to Stay

    Ponte della Valle from Ski Unique

    Through Chalets Direct, you can find the beautiful, independently-run chalet Ponte della Valle, managed and owned by husband-and-wife team Dean and Grainne.

    This stunning and unique chalet is now available for an unforgettable Christmas week at an amazing price of just 6, 392 euros  for up to 10 people, fully catered. You can fly to Milan or Turin, and transfers each way are just 35 euros per person. There are also private shuttles to take you to both Alagna and Alpe di Mera, whether you’re chasing first tracks or heading back early for après and hot tub time. More details ….

    Ponte Della Valle is only 1.15hr transfer from Milan. Alpe di Mera is just 9 mins or Alagna 25 mins in private car service. The chalet is a unique place to stay, originally an 18th century water mill, it is now a beautifully renovated space with amazing views. It sleeps 8/10 and is fully catered with a professional chef.
    Dean and Grainne can tell you which runs catch the best light, which rifugio serves the best polenta, and their cuisine is exceptional. They will tell you all you need to know to make the most of your Monte Rosa adventure.

    In a Few Words

    If you love skiing for its feeling of freedom, flow, and connection with nature, the Monte Rosa region — and Alpe di Mera in particular — is a place you’ll never forget.
    It’s not about being seen. It’s about seeing clearly again.

  • Make it Personal – Why Choose an Independent Ski Operator?

    Why Book with an Independent Ski Holiday Company?

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    Here at Chalets Direct, we’ve always believed that booking your ski holiday direct with small, passionate operators gives you the best of both worlds — personal service and great value. Amongst our members, we have so many passionate experts who call the mountains their home, raised their families there and become part of the community. Delivering your ski holiday is a labour of love for them. We’ve included some of them in our slideshow – but there are many more!

    Whether you prefer catered chalets or self-catered apartments, the independent route delivers an authentic, flexible, and rewarding ski experience.

    Here’s why.

    1. Personal Service and Local Knowledge

    Independent chalet and apartment companies are usually run by people who live in the mountains — often year-round. That means you benefit from genuine insider knowledge: where to find the best snow, the quietest pistes, or the cosiest mountain restaurants.

    Instead of speaking to a call centre, you’re in touch with the people who actually look after the property. They care about your stay and go above and beyond to make sure everything runs smoothly — from lift passes and transfers to restaurant bookings and ski hire.

    2. Authentic, Characterful Properties

    Independent ski chalets and apartments are full of individual character and charm. Each one has its own story, style, and atmosphere — a refreshing change from the uniform feel of chain hotels.

    From rustic, timber-clad lodges with roaring fires to sleek modern apartments overlooking the slopes, these places have real personality. You’ll often find better value too, since you’re not paying for corporate overheads.

    3. Flexibility and Choice

    Booking with a smaller company often means more flexibility. Want a short stay? Need Sunday-to-Sunday dates? Looking to combine ski lessons with childcare or off-piste guiding? Independent operators can usually make it happen.

    Whether you’re after a fully catered chalet with delicious meals prepared in-house or a self-catered ski apartment where you can cook and explore local dining options, you’ll find choices that fit your style, budget, and group size.

    4. Transparent Pricing and Direct Contact

    When you book direct, you talk to the people who really know the property, the resort and the ski area. There’s no middleman or booking commission inflating the price.

    You get clear, honest information and often great deals. Many owners include thoughtful extras like welcome hampers, lift pass delivery, or airport transfers — small touches that make a big difference.

    5. Supporting Local Communities

    Independent ski companies are often family-run or small local businesses — and your booking helps support the mountain communities that make these resorts so special. Many of these families have raised their kids there and have been part of the local community for years.

    From local suppliers and cleaners to chefs and ski instructors, your holiday spend stays where it matters most: in the resort itself. It’s a sustainable choice that gives back to the places you love to ski.

    6. A More Authentic Experience

    There’s something special about staying somewhere that feels like a home, not a hotel. Independent chalets attract guests who value warm hospitality, personal connection, and mountain passion.

    You’re not just another booking — you’re part of a shared love for skiing, snowboarding, and alpine life. That warmth and authenticity is what keeps guests coming back year after year.

    Catered or Self-Catered — Your Choice

    One of the biggest benefits of booking independently is freedom of choice.

    • Catered chalets: Perfect if you want to relax completely — breakfast, afternoon tea, and a hearty evening meal are all taken care of.

    • Self-catered accommodation: Ideal for flexibility — try local restaurants, stock up on fresh produce, or enjoy a quiet night in with mountain views. Many companies can also recommend local chefs or meal delivery companies, so you can relax and let someone else take care of the shopping and cooking.

    Whichever you choose, independent hosts know what skiers and snowboarders really need: comfort, convenience, plenty of snow time and where to get the best hot chocolate!

    Discover Independent Ski Holidays with Chalets Direct

    Since 1999, Chalets Direct has helped holidaymakers connect directly with independent ski holiday companies across Europe — from the French and Swiss Alps to Austria and Italy.

    Browse hundreds of catered and self-catered chalets and apartments, chat directly with the owners or operators, and plan your ski holiday your way.

    👉 Start your search today at chaletsdirect.com and find your next independent ski escape. Or use our unique Solutions Room – just post up what you’re looking for in a ski holiday and let the offers come back to you! (Want to know more about the Solutions Room? check this out)

  • Train Like A Skier On Your Commute

    Train Like a Skier on Your Commute

    How to Build Balance, Control, Fitness and Confidence — Without Looking Silly

    Most of us only get a few weeks on snow each year. We know how important it is to get some training and work on our ski fitness. Yet with work, commuting and daily life it’s often difficult to find the time. So why not turn your commute into a simple fitness routine which can help build strength and confidence for when you hit the slopes?

    It’s not always the gym, or fancy equipment — it’s awareness, repetition, and balance.
    And you can train all of those on your daily commute.

    No Lycra, no stretching mats. Just the train, the platform, and a bit of imagination.

    🧠 It works because it is subtle.

    Skiing is built on balance, rhythm, and control — not brute strength, but subtlety.
    Standing on a moving train or bus is, biomechanically, the same kind of micro-adjustment you do on skis.
    Every time you subtly flex your ankles, shift weight, or steady your core, you’re firing the same muscles and reflexes that keep you upright on snow.

    Think of your commute as “balance training on rails.”

    It’s not about looking sporty. It’s about quietly rehearsing how your body reacts to motion, so when you clip into skis, it all feels familiar.

    🚇 Step 1: Ditch the Escalator — Take the Steps

    Taking the stairs isn’t new advice, but think of it like a skier.

    • Walk lightly, imagine you are on eggshells — feel your weight spread evenly through the foot.

    • Play with pushing off different parts of the foot to raise your ski/foot pressure awareness.

    • Keep your core engaged and chest open, like you’re gliding down a gentle slope.

    • As you go up, imagine each step as a turn — fluid, connected, in rhythm.

    By the top, your heart’s ticking, your quads are awake, and you’ve done the first part of your warm-up without looking like you tried.

    🚆 Step 2: Balance on the Train/Tube

    Once you’re on the train or tube: Play the theme tune to Ski Sunday if you feel like it!

    • Stand if possible, and don’t hold on unless you need to.

    • Feel all the different parts of the sole of your foot, toes, ball of the foot, arch, heel, the inside and outside of the foot. Move the pressure from one area to another and raise your awareness of how it affects your balance.  Raising this awareness will help an enormous amount when on skis.

    • Let the train’s sway challenge your balance.

    • Keep your knees slightly bent, ankles soft, and hips relaxed — ski stance!

    This micro-balancing builds proprioception (body awareness) and strengthens all those deep stabilising muscles that protect your knees and hips.

    💡 Pro tip: Visualise your skis gliding — imagine absorbing small bumps, keeping your head level as the carriage moves. That’s exactly what good skiing looks like.

    🦶 Step 3: Subtle Ski Movements (No One Will Notice)

    Try these discreet “commuter drills”:

    • Heel Raises (10 reps): Lift gently and lower through your forefoot — strengthens ankles and calves for edging control.

    • Mini Knee Flexes (10 reps): Like soft ski turns, small and rhythmic.

    • Torso Twists (5 each way): Keep hips still, rotate your upper body — builds separation and flow.

    • Core Bracing: Pull your navel gently toward your spine for 5 seconds, relax, repeat — teaches stability under pressure.

    Each one can be done naturally, even in a crowd. Nobody will think twice — you’ll just look balanced and calm.

    🧭 Step 4: Visualise the Mountain

    Mental rehearsal is one of skiing’s hidden superpowers.
    When you can’t ski, visualise skiing.
    As the train rocks or the bus slows, picture yourself gliding through turns:

    • Feel the weight shift from one foot to the other.

    • Sense your edges gripping the snow.

    • Hear the rhythm of your turns.

    This kind of visualization primes the brain-muscle connection. Studies show athletes who visualise technique consistently perform up to 15% better than those who don’t — and they learn faster when back on snow.

    ☕ Step 5: Mindset — From Commuter to Skier

    Your commute doesn’t have to be dead time. It can be your daily ski rehearsal. Make the most of it.
    You’ll arrive at work more awake, more centered, and your balance will quietly improve over time.

    By the time you reach the slopes, your joints and reflexes will already know the dance and ready for action.
    Your first run will feel smoother, your stance stronger, and your turns — instinctive and natural.

    🎿 Finally: The 2-Minute Platform Routine for the Inevitable Delay.

    While waiting for your train, which may be boring, try the following:

    1. 10 calf raises

    2. 10 gentle squats

    3. Arm swings and shoulder rolls

    4. Torso twist stretch

    All done in under two minutes. Looks like you’re just shaking off the morning chill, but you’re actually activating your ski muscles.

    Want more tips for getting fit for your ski holiday? Check out our Snow Fitness blogs!

    Train for skiing on your commute to work
    Balance, control and rhythm!

  • Planning a Christmas Ski Holiday? Here’s our Top Tips

    Christmas ski holidays
    Snowing at Christmas in 2024!

    🎄 Find your Christmas Ski Holiday – Top Tips

    Dreaming of a white Christmas in the mountains? A Christmas ski holiday is one of the most magical ways to celebrate — think snowy slopes, sparkling trees, and festive evenings by the fire. But because it’s also one of the most popular ski weeks of the year, it pays to plan ahead.

    Here are our expert tips for booking your perfect Christmas ski break, from finding a great resort to snapping up the best chalets before they sell out.

    1. Book Early for the Best Christmas Ski Deals

    If you want your pick of the best chalets, apartments, or catered ski holidays, start looking early. Christmas ski accommodation often sells out months in advance, especially in popular resorts and for larger groups. If you’ve missed the first wave however, don’t despair. There’s still festive options out there.

    Pro tip: Keep an eye on our Special Offers page — sometimes last-minute Christmas ski deals pop up when other guests cancel. Some offers available for Christmas right now:

    See all our Christmas and New Year offers. If you’re short on time post your requirements on the Solutions Room and see what offers come back to you.

    2. Plan Travel Early — It’s a Busy Week for Getting Away

    Flights, transfers, ferries and trains can book up fast for the Christmas week. Secure your travel early to avoid sky-high fares.

    If you’re driving, check local regulations for winter tyres and chains.

    3. Ski Resorts May Not Be as Crowded as You Think for the first part of the Week

    Traditionally in France, Austria, Italy, the big celebration is on Christmas Eve – and this is often a special family dinner at home. So whilst the locals may be spending the 24th and 25th at home, enjoying family time, ski resorts can be quieter than you expect. Come the 26th however, it’s time to get on the slopes!

    One of the best times to get out skiing is for the first lift on Christmas morning! Save your presents for later in the day and give yourself and the family one of the best presents of all – first lift on December 25th!

    3. Decide Between Catered and Self-Catered Accommodation

    Your accommodation can make or break your Christmas ski holiday.

    • Catered chalets let you fully relax — festive dinner and all — without lifting a finger.

    • Self-catered ski apartments give you flexibility and a home-from-home feel, especially if you enjoy cooking or have young children. They also give you the option to try the local Yuletide traditions – why not swap the turkey for a festive fondue or raclette this Christmas?

    Some properties now offer meal-delivery or private-chef options — perfect for enjoying Christmas dinner without the stress.

    4. Bring the Festive Magic with You

    Resorts sparkle with fairy lights, torchlight descents, and Christmas markets, but adding your own personal touches makes it even more special.

    Pack a few small decorations, Christmas jumpers, or a mini stocking for each person. And remember: in many alpine countries, Christmas Eve is the main celebration — so you don’t have to wait until the 25th to pop the champagne!

    5. Book Ski School and Equipment Early

    Ski schools and hire shops are busiest during the holidays, so reserve lessons and equipment well in advance. If you’re bringing kids, check festive schedules — some schools include Santa visits or themed fun on the slopes.

    6. Don’t Stress About the Snow — Enjoy the Festivities

    Even if conditions aren’t perfect, Christmas ski resorts offer so much more than just skiing. Think spa days, ice skating, sleigh rides, and cosy mountain restaurants with breathtaking views. Many resorts will have free entertainment for their visitors, including fireworks, visits from Santa, special church services, so make sure you check the latest tourist office bulletins for Christmas week.

    A Christmas ski trip is all about atmosphere — snowy peaks, roaring fires, and time with loved ones.

    🎅 Wrap-Up: Make This Christmas One to Remember

    A Christmas ski holiday is the ultimate festive escape — snow, scenery, and seasonal magic all rolled into one. With a bit of forward planning, you’ll enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable holiday on the slopes.

    At Chalets Direct, we make it easy to find your perfect match — whether that’s a catered Christmas ski chalet, a luxury apartment for families, or a last-minute festive ski deal.  And don’t forget to try the Solutions Room – just post up your dates, how many people, and where you’d like to go and see what options come back to you!

    👉 Start your Christmas ski search today and make this festive season one to remember.

  • It’s snowing! Time to find that Ski Holiday – here’s how!

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    If you’ve been holding off booking your ski holiday – it’s time! It’s October 24th and storm Benjamin has delivered the goods in the Alps. Lots of snow – around 20-25cms in some resorts, much more up top! We are stoked!

    Luckily we’ve made it easy for you to find your perfect ski trip. Here’s our top tips for finding your ski holiday today!

    Use the Chalets Direct Solutions Room 

    The Solutions Room is a unique feature of Chalets Direct. It’s a great alternative way to find your ski holiday. You post what you’re looking for — your dates, group size, budget, and any special requirements.

    Once your request is live, chalet and apartment owners who fit your criteria can get in touch directly with their best offers.

    It flips the booking process on its head: instead of chasing availability, the right options find you.

    How does it work?

    1. Head to the Solutions Room.
    2. Fill in a quick form with your holiday details and preferences.
    3. Relax and wait while chalet owners and operators respond.
    4. Browse the offers, ask questions, and choose the one that suits you best.

    It’s that simple — and there’s no obligation to book if nothing feels right. For more details on how to use the Solutions Room check out our previous post here

    👉 Post your request today and let the mountains come to you!

    The Latest & Greatest Ski Offers 

    Did you know we’ve got a ton of special offers waiting for you? See them all on our Promotions area .  You can filter by dates, resorts and even see if there’s anything tempting for Christmas .

    You can also sign up to receive these direct to your inbox throughout the winter! See the Latest newsletter!

    About Us

    We’ve been going for over 20 years! We love the mountains and we spend as much time skiing as possible.

    Our Chalets Direct members are just like us – passionate about what they do with tons of expertise on delivering the best ski holidays. Many of them have made the mountains their home. They can give you real insider tips on the best runs, where to start your day, the hidden gems of the ski area, the most delicious hot chocolates, the most fun apres-ski!

    So tie down that ski holiday today! Here’s our CEO just making some turns last year! We’re so excited for this winter – can you tell?

  • Why More Americans Are Skiing in Europe — and Why Now’s the Time to Try It

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    Skiing in Europe used to be a bucket-list dream for many Americans — something for “one day.” But over the past few winters, that dream has quietly become reality.

    At Chalets Direct, we’ve seen a rise in American skiers booking ski holidays in France, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. It’s not a coincidence. Skiing in Europe has never been more accessible, affordable, or rewarding.
    If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth flying across the Atlantic for a ski trip, here’s why now is the perfect time.

    💶 1. Europe Offers Better Value for Money

    Let’s be honest — skiing in the U.S. has become incredibly expensive. A single day lift ticket at Vail or Deer Valley can top $250 per day, before food or accommodation.
    In contrast, European ski resorts deliver world-class skiing at half the cost:
    • Full-week lift passes often cost less than three U.S. day passes
    • Charming, independent chalets offer better space and hospitality
    • Restaurant-quality mountain lunches cost less than a cafeteria burger
    Even after accounting for flights, a full ski week in France, Austria, or Italy can cost less than six days at a U.S. resort — with better snow variety and unforgettable scenery.

    🌍 2. Your Ski Pass Might Already Work in Europe

    Many American skiers don’t realise that their Epic Pass or Ikon Pass includes access to top European ski destinations.
    That means you can ski legendary resorts like Verbier, Zermatt, and the 3 Valleys without buying a separate lift pass. The global ski-pass model has opened the door for Americans to explore the Alps easily — and often at no extra cost.

    ✈️ 3. Easier Travel and Strong Dollar Advantage

    Flights from the U.S. to Geneva, Zurich, and Milan have become more frequent and more affordable. The strong U.S. dollar also means your ski budget stretches further in Europe than it has in years.
    With smooth transfers and modern infrastructure, resorts like Chamonix, Morzine , The 3 vallees, St Anton, Alpe d’Huez, and even Val d’isere are within easy reach of major airports.

    🏔️ 4. The Skiing Itself Is Unmatched

    Skiing in Europe is more than a sport — it’s a journey through mountains and culture. You can ski through three valleys, across languages, and even over national borders — all in one day.
    And then there’s the food, the atmosphere, and the soul of it all. Long, scenic runs end in sunny terraces with a glass of wine or a homemade tartiflette. Après-ski happens in quaint villages, or on mountain terraces with live music, DJ’s and a real party atmosphere.
    For many Americans, that sense of history and style makes European skiing a revelation.

    🏡 5. Accommodation: A Ton of Choices

    You can find the large chain hotels, with ski valets, the latest spa facilities and top-notch services. You’ll also find family-run pensions and hotels which have been in the family for 3 generations or more. You’ve got all kinds of apartments and self-catered options and of course you’ll also find the catered chalet. They’re warm, social, and personal — like staying in a mountain home.
    Chalets Direct offers a large selection of options — from budget-friendly to luxury — across France, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. The majority are owned and managed by people who’ve made their life in the mountains. They are local experts who live, love and breathe their mountain environment.
    For U.S. visitors, chalets represent the kind of hospitality and atmosphere that’s unique and difficult to find outside the European ski experience.

    💬 6. What Americans Are Saying

    “We’ve skied Colorado for 20 years, but Europe blew us away. The food, the villages, the price — it’s better in every way.”
    — The Miller Family, Vermont
    “Our week in Chamonix cost less than our last trip to Aspen — and the memories were priceless.”
    — Rachel & Dan, California

    🧭 Why You Should Book Now

    With rising U.S. ski prices, a strong dollar, and growing U.S.–Europe flight options, there’s never been a better time to experience skiing in Europe.
    Whether it’s the majestic peaks of Zermatt, the charm of Les Gets, or the vast playground of Les Trois Vallées, your next great ski adventure is waiting.
    And Chalets Direct makes it easy — use The Solutions Room to find your match, check out our great offers , or browse a massive choice of chalets, apartments, and ski hotels direct from the owners and operators who know the mountains best, and get the personal touch.

    🏔️ Ready to Ski Europe?

    👉 Explore the Alps. Your European ski holiday starts here!

  • Why Your Ski Holiday Means So Much — Even Though It’s Only a Week Long

    Why we plan, dream, and won’t miss it for the world

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    For most skiers, the annual ski holiday isn’t “just another trip.”
    It’s the one week that sits like a bright marker in the calendar — a source of excitement that starts months before departure and lingers long after you’ve unpacked your bag.
    But if you think about it, that’s a little strange. Six days on the mountain… compared to fifty-one weeks of normal life. So why does it feel so important? Why do people plan their year, finances, and even fitness around it — and why do they refuse to miss it, no matter what else they sacrifice?

    🎿 1. It’s Not Just a Holiday — It’s an Identity

    For those who love it, skiing isn’t a pastime, it’s part of who they are.
    You might be an accountant, teacher, or parent for most of the year — but on the mountain, you’re something else.
    You’re moving with rhythm and freedom, reading the snow, dancing with gravity.
    That feeling taps into something deep and primal: the joy of movement, mastery, and flow.
    And for many, it’s a rare part of life where everything else — stress, screens, and schedules — falls away.

    🌄 2. Anticipation is Half the Joy

    The build-up is part of the magic.
    Choosing the resort, the accommodation, the people you’ll go with. Working out what are the “must haves” – maybe a log fire, a hot tub, outdoor space for the kids to run wild, spectacular views? Watching the first snowfall on the webcams. Checking gear, fitness, and snow reports.
    Psychologists call this anticipatory joy — the pleasure of looking forward to something.
    And ski holidays provide the perfect storm for it: rarity, adventure, nature, and a dash of luxury all rolled into one.
    Every email confirmation, every fresh dusting of snow, every chat about your trip builds that joyful tension.

    🧘‍♀️ 3. Mountains Reset the System

    Even a short time in the mountains changes how we feel. The combination of altitude, nature, physical activity, and social connection resets both body and mind.
    You breathe differently. You sleep better. You eat heartily without guilt.
    You reconnect with sensations — the crunch of snow, the warmth of a vin chaud, the fun of just bantering on the chairlift with friends, or striking up conversations with strangers, knowing that there is that common bond between you.
    Ski holidays aren’t just fun — they’re restorative.
    And once you’ve experienced that yearly reset, it becomes something you need, not just want.

    🏡 4. The Holiday is a Memory Factory

    The right place to stay — with its smells of waxed skis, coffee, fresh croissants at breakfast — becomes the stage for shared moments that stick forever.
    Kids tumbling in from ski school with red cheeks.
    Friends arguing playfully over the best run of the day.
    That one evening when the snow fell silently outside and time seemed to stop.
    Those aren’t just holiday moments — they become anchors in life’s memory chain.
    Ask any skier to recall their favourite runs or resorts and they’ll do it in vivid detail.

    💸 5. Because Life Needs Something to Look Forward To

    In a world of sameness, deadlines, and routine, the ski trip represents hope, reward, and renewal.
    It’s the promise that after working hard, something truly special is waiting — crisp air, soft snow, and freedom.
    And that’s why so many will forgo other things — nights out, new clothes, even home upgrades — to make sure that week happens.
    Because that week gives life rhythm and balance.

    ❤️ 6. The Real Reason

    At its core, the ski holiday is a ritual of joy.
    A reminder that you’re alive, capable, and connected — to the mountains, to others, and to yourself.
    So yes, it’s only a week long.
    But it’s the week that makes the rest of the year make sense.
    Ready to book your next ski holiday? Take a look at all the options on Chalets Direct and try the Solutions Room for a unique way to find what you’re looking for!

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