The idea of the catered ski chalet has become woven into the psyche of British skiers and is a great way of spending time in the mountains with a bunch of friends or family, or to meet new people to ski and board with!
For those of you who have yet to try it, Sallyann of Ski Dazzle in La Tania has come up with a great guide on what to expect on a catered chalet holiday.
What to Expect on a Catered Chalet Holiday
Ever wondered what the whole catered ski chalet concept is all about? Maybe your friends go away each year and you want to know what the fuss is all about? Or maybe it’s on your radar for next winter and you need some more info?
Catered ski chalet holidays take a lot of the hassle out of a ski trip. With your meals prepared for you, you’ll have more time to relax and spend your time doing what you came out for – to ski and spend time with family and friends.
What is a catered ski chalet holiday?
A catered ski chalet is a great option for skiers and boarders who want more time to relax after a long day on the slopes. You stay in a chalet near the slopes, either fully booked out by your party or shared with other holiday-makers, where board is included and served in-chalet by dedicated staff. Normally board includes hot breakfast, afternoon tea, and a four course dinner in the evening – with one or two days off during the week.
Why choose a catered ski chalet?
Firstly, you’re going to save time. And on a one-week holiday, time is precious! Loads of skiers and boarders choose a catered ski chalet because it gives them more time to spend with family and friends, more time to relax after a day’s skiing, and less to worry about. No need to go to the shop and buy all the basics for one week. No need to try and figure out what that packet says in French…
And aside from the catering experience, staying in a chalet is a must for any trip to the Alps. Unlike a hotel experience, you’ll feel homely and cosy in your own space. You can spread out, put your feet up in the lounge each evening, and be in the privacy of your own party at the chalet you call home for the week.
Self-catered chalets or apartments are also a great option if you’re looking for more flexibility. They also give you the opportunity to spend more evenings trying the local fayre in nearby restaurants.
What's included?
Firstly – it says what it does on the tin – catering! Normally your board will include breakfast every morning with hot options most days, afternoon tea and homemade cakes waiting for you when you get back from skiing, and full dinner service – all hosted by your chalet host and cook. Here’s a bit more detail about the Ski Dazzle food service.
There is usually one or two nights per week where the staff have the evening off. This is a chance to explore a local restaurant and perhaps get in your fill of fondue or raclette whilst in the Alps.
Daily Schedule
8:00 – Breakfast is waiting for you when you wake up! Saunter into the dining area and feast on fresh croissants and bread, yummy jams and spreads, cereal, and 5 out of 7 days – a hot option (a full English is definitely on the menu once a week!)
9:00 – Head out on the mountain and enjoy your day on the slopes.
Lunchtime – Try out some of the great restaurants the area has to offer. Le Bouc Blanc is a great option for affordable yet delicious mountain food – based right here in La Tania. Or opt to have a packed lunch prepared by our team. You’ll find various picnic areas around the mountain, the perfect pit stop on a sunny day, and stunning views are included!
Late Afternoon – Head back to the chalet and dive into the homemade cake or biscuits waiting for you.
7:00 – Enjoy canapés and an aperitif in front of the fire before dinner service.
7:30 – Dinner is served. Four delicious courses to fill you up after a hard day’s ski. A variety of international dishes are on the menu along with a paired wine each evening.
After Dinner – Cap off the evening with a Nespresso coffee and petit fours in the lounge.
WHAT ABOUT THE KIDS?
Bringing little ones with you? More often than not, younger ones will have the option to have an earlier tea. This will be something homemade and tasty but catered to children’s tastes. Classics like spaghetti bolognaise and homemade pizzas usually make the menu.
Sound like the kind of ski trip you want to have? We can help! Check out Ski Dazzle's beautiful catered chalets in La Tania and book your catered ski chalet holiday now.
