Visiting the Alps in the winter is a truly magical experience… beautiful ski chalets, log fires, amazing views, fresh snow, delicious food and great skiing! But what happens if not everyone in your group likes skiing?
Happily, Chatel has lots to offer for non skiers, to ensure their holiday is just as enjoyable – without racing down a ski slope. Here we have listed some of our favourites – and when you book a holiday with NINE & TENNE we are always on hand to point you in the right direction and ensure everyone in the group has a memorable holiday.
1) Snowshoe walking
Snowshoe walking is a great way to explore the mountains and get a close look at the natural beauty of the area without strapping on some skis. It’s very easy to master; we have all the equipment you need to use free of charge and our helpful staff are always happy to help you get started.
2) Husky rides
Just a couple of miles down the road alongside the riverbank is a husky-ride centre which gives people the chance to drive their own team of huskies. Alternatively you can sit back and relax in the sledge as one of the trained guides takes you for a ride.
3) Spa treatments
Holidays are the perfect time for a bit of pampering and R & R. We can arrange for a masseuse to visit you at the chalet for treatments, or we can also book a variety of treatments for you at the new aquatic centre Forme d’O in the middle of town.
4) Shopping
Chatel is a charming traditional mountain village with a lovely selection of shops selling local produce and specialties. There is also a fantastic market on Wednesday mornings which is a great place to buy some of the local cheese and cured meats.
5) Farm visit
Chatel is still very much an active farming village with over 60 farms in the valley. Its possible to visit some of these farms and see first hand how the delicious local cheese is produced.
6) Forme d’O
The Forme d’O is a state of the art leisure complex recently opened in the middle of Chatel. It’s facilities include two indoor pools one outdoor pool, gym, and spa facilities. It’s a great place to exercise and relax if you’re not on the slopes.
7) Ice fishing
Just above the town is a beautiful mountain lake which ices over in the winter. It’s a lovely place for a walk and the ice skating rink is located here, but it’s also possible to try ice fishing. just as the eskimos do!
8) Cross country skiing
If downhill skiing isn’t your cup of tea why not try your hand at cross-country skiing? There are 10km of cross-country trails located just below Chatel which zig-zag trough the woods and along the riverbank. We can arrange ski hire and lessons if required.
9) Fondue lunch up the mountain
Just because you’re not skiing doesn’t mean you can’t head up the mountain. It’s possible to use the Super Chatel Telecabine or the Pierre Longue chairlift as a pedestrian, so it’s very easy to meet your skiing friends for a fondue lunch in one of the wonderful mountain restaurants.
10) Watch the world go by…
Many of our non-skiing guests just love sitting on one of the comfy sofas reading a book and admiring the views over the village and Abondance valley; it’s the perfect way to relax and re-charge the batteries.
For more information and prices for any of the activities, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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