Elegant Address Ski In Verbier

I'm lucky enough to have these fantastic opportunities to travel and see some of the worlds most luxurious chalets.....

  Following on from my first experience of the Alps with Elegant Address Ski in September in the beautiful region of Zermatt, I was delighted to find out we would be travelling to Verbier for the opening of the ski season!

Not only were we lucky enough to see Verbier just before Christmas, but had the pleasure of staying at the lovely Chalet Marais Rouge. 

The chalet is in walking distance to the Medran lift and centre of Verbier, it's a wonderful stand-alone property that is perfect for those looking for a cosy and relaxing retreat to Switzerland. Offering an outdoor hot tub, sauna and cinema room, the chalet is also great for those who prefer not to ski and are looking for a winter escape. 

This chalet includes both a host and chef, who will take very good care of you during your stay. Your meal plans can be catered to your liking and needs, and the food certainly does not disappoint. There is nothing nicer than returning to the chalet after a long day skiing to be greeted by homemade cakes, fresh bread and an array of teas and coffee!

During our first full day in Verbier, we spent our time viewing chalets. A standout duplex apartment for us was Chalet Skye with its large reception room, eclectic furniture from all around the world and just a three minute walk to the Medran lift. It would be all too easy to enjoy a cool glass of champagne on the spacious south-facing balcony. 

If you are looking for absolutely breath-taking views, Apartment Alhena is the one for you – I could not quite believe my eyes! Just 100m from the Savoyleres lift, this wonderful apartment offers a mix of contemporary and alpine style, along with a driver service to take you around Verbier. 

When we returned to Marais Rouge, it was time for another incredible meal of Caprese salad, chicken stuffed with vegetables and stilton then an impressive crème brulee ice cream to finish. All this was served by our wonderful host and chef, along with a fabulous selection of hand-picked wines.

On Saturday it was time for some skiing! With fantastic conditions for a day on the slopes, we ventured 3,329 metres up to Mont Fort – one of Verbier’s most challenging and exhilarating runs. After taking lots of pictures that could not possibly portray the beauty we were seeing, off we went on our descent back down to the centre – obviously with an obligatory hot chocolate stop halfway!

Verbier is the perfect place for those looking to relax, treat themselves to some shopping, enjoy wonderful food and drinks in the local restaurants and bars…..oh and let’s not forget the absolutely amazing skiing! It was safe to say I did not want to say goodbye to Verbier, but will definitely looking forward to going back. 

Written by one of our luxury ski chalet consultants - Sophie Dobson

Toblerone's Hidden Message

The Toblerone bar is a much loved holiday treat, usually picked up at the airport on the way back from a ski holiday as a last minute gift – but did you know this Swiss chocolate has a secret symbol?

During this Christmas there will be tonnes of Toblerone hanging in stockings before being demolished in front of the TV or around the fire as an evening treat but next time you break off a triangular chunk– have a look at the packaging. The famous Toblerone logo has an image of the iconic Swiss mountain; the Matterhorn in Zermatt, but if you look closely there is secret creature in the mountain shadows….A bear!

The hidden bear is in reference to the town of the creator Theodor Tobler and the chocolates origin – Bern – which has a bear featuring on its coat of arms. The triangular shape of the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps is commonly believed to have given Theodor Tobler his inspiration for the shape of Toblerone. However, according to Theodor's sons, the triangular shape originates from a pyramid shape that dancers at the Folies Bergères created as the finale of a show that Theodor saw.

News just in! The Toblerone shape has been CHANGED!! The UK isn’t happy about it, as they are reducing in size with less peaks, Scandal! What do you think?

We highly recommend visiting the beautiful resort of Zermatt and seeing the Matterhorn Moutain in it's glory. Our award-winning ski specialists (who have lived in Zermatt!) would be delighted to organise your ski trip with our incredible portfolio of luxury chalets in this prestigious Swiss resort. 

5 reasons to visit Val d’Isere This Season

Val d’Isere is the ideal ski resort with amazing terrain and beautiful traditional town – No surprise then that it is the UK’s favourite winter ski destination! If that wasn’t enough reason to visit Val d’Isere, we have come up with five great excuses to head to the French Alps this season to discover this fantastic luxury ski resort.

Traditional town

Starting off as just a 17^th century church and a couple of farm houses, Val d’Isere has developed remarkably whilst still keeping it’s traditional charm. There is even a strictly-enforced no parking policy on the town's roads and mature trees line the main street where cars once parked. New for the 2016/17 season is the Solaise gondola, a state-of-the-art lift to replace the old Solaise Express chairlift. The 10-person gondola, complete with heated seats and wifi to share those enviable, snow-filled shots straight fresh from the mountain!

The resort is home to a selection of the world's most prestigious shops, exclusive bars and Michelin star restaurants, there certainly won't be any shortage of things to do and the après ski is fantastic with ski in ski out bars nestled within the glistening slopes. Olympic Avenue is a must see, especially for your dining needs during your luxury ski retreat.

Skiing and Off-piste

Val d’Isere and the incredible Espace Killy ski area has some of the most varied, longest and best off piste skiing in Europe. There is a large selection of off-piste to explore and enjoy with each skiing area of the resort having something different to offer.

The advanced terrain is for confident skiiers to venture off to test their skills. It goes without saying that we highly recommend viewing the avalanche safety page for tips and hire an off piste guide who has the best local knowledge and tracks down the mountain. Val d’Isère is famous for its huge amount of back country skiing but it's also great for families and has 19 ski schools, many of which are multilingual.

Après ski

Val d’Isere is known for having some of the liveliest nightlife in the Alps with dozens of bars and nightclubs to choose from. There is the perfect balance for both party animals and those who prefer only the very best champagne or a quiet beer. Val d’Isere has great après ski options for everyone.

The famous La Folie Douce starts the party from 3pm at the top of the slopes and has a brave gathering of people dancing in their ski boots on the tables well into the evening! La Folie Douce also has a fantastic restaurant attached called the Fruitiere which offers a relaxed atmosphere with superb food and a good wine list.

At the bottom of the slopes, as well as plenty of lively bars offering happy hours, there are quieter options such as the sophisticated Rosee Blanche at the end of the piste in La Daille which is the place to be when the sun is out as it has a great deck to sit out on and the best vin chaud in town!

Linked to Tignes

Two ski resorts for the price of one! Val d’Isere is linked to Tignes to provide an amazing ski area totally 300km of pistes and 94 lifts! Unlike other resorts that claim a giant ski area, the pistes of Val and Tignes are naturally linked without the need for long and boring connecting trails or lifts. The standard of piste grooming is extremely high and the lift system is constantly being upgraded.

Val d’Isere itself has high quality, snow-sure slopes that are brilliant for both complete beginner up to veteran powder wizards. The season lasts from end of November all the way to the first week in May!

Incredible chalets

Chalet Le Chardon, view here: https://goo.gl/nGMjF8 

We have many beautiful Luxury chalets in Val d’Isere each offering the very best in alpine skiing you will be spoilt for choice, so to make the search process easier for you let our expert consultants take care of it for you. Choose from a variety of unique, resort centre or more private locations in the stunning village of Val d’Isère in the French Alps. Most of our chalets have luxury facilities such as indoor pools, Jacuzzis, private spas, private chef and more!

Chalet l'hotse, view here: https://goo.gl/YEmzEA

Chalet Marco Polo: https://goo.gl/5iB7LQ

Chalet Le Rocher: https://goo.gl/t8j5Dp

Our Ski Expert Abi Visits Zermatt!

Our return to Zermatt starts in the most beautiful way; the stunning train journey around Lake Geneva and up through the Alps. Even from landing at Geneva, the riot of colour is evident; the icy, bright blues of the rivers winding through the rich greens of the forests and farmland – Switzerland must be one of the most beautiful countries in the world!

Wending its way out of Geneva, the train line skirts the very edge of the lake for what seems like an impossibly long time, while mountains ringing the edge of it gradually increase in height. Changing to the Matterhorn Gotthardbahn in Visp, the train winds along the valley, climbing all the way, until the lifts at Klein Matterhorn and Gornergrat come into view, glittering in the summer sun.

Zermatt itself is exceptionally beautiful in both summer and winter. In winter, the dark woods of the traditional buildings contrast with the white snow and crisp blue skies, and outside bars and restaurants fur-covered seats are invitingly cosy while inside log fires burn. In the summer, the balconies overflow with flowers in every colour, and the green of the mountain sides and forests is complemented by warm sunshine. Always the Matterhorn looms above, so striking a view that it almost doesn’t look real.

On our brief stay this time, we crammed in some fantastic experiences; our second day began with a trip to the very top of the ski area – from 1600m to 3,883m in 45 minutes. Getting on to the Matterhorn Express lift, the bubble takes you up through Furi and up to Trockner Steg, where you switch to the cable car to the very top. Currently a new lift is being built to run alongside the cable car and increase capacity dramatically –this should be open for 2017/18, which is great news for skiers, and will make heading over into Italy a lot easier.

The top of the lift is the highest lift station in Europe; from the panoramic viewing platform you can see the Alps stretching in every direction, the clouds hugging the mountains way below you. Down in one direction you can see the chocolate box village of Zermatt, and to the other Cervinia is just visible. All around are glaciers with the tracks of hikers criss-crossing them.  An unmissable stop here is the Glacier Palace – carved into the glacier itself, the network of tunnels are home to ice sculptures lit by multi-coloured lights, and even an ice slide carved into the glacier. If you prefer the sun outside, take the option of the ice slide outside in a rubber tube!

From here we took the lift back to Furi, where we spent an enjoyable few hours learning to clay pigeon shoot. With bright coloured clays and guns converted to laser rather than real bullets, it’s an activity for all year round, and for all levels. The stunning backdrop is distractingly lovely, but nevertheless we managed a very successful competition!

A short walk through sun drenched paths between chocolate box houses brings you to Restaurant Zum See – an absolute gem in a village renowned for its gourmet food. Local homemade dishes and Swiss wine, set amongst the green of the meadows with the Matterhorn above you – it’s a must-visit. In the winter you can ski to and from it, making it a fabulous lunch stop. In the summer, it is an easy and wonderful downhill walk to the village.

Zermatt’s nightlife is also not to be missed – bars dotted along the main street feature live music, unique and delicious cocktails, Swiss wines and beers and a huge range of spirits. Whether you prefer bars or clubs, there’s a selection of both – if you feel up to if after apres at Hennu Stall and a sumptuous dinner in your chalet that is!

No matter when you come in the year, and whether or not you love to ski, hike, climb or simply love to enjoy the ambiance of the mountains, Zermatt has something for every person. There is something truly special about it. It is undoubtedly one of the finest ski resorts in the world, and my absolute favourite place!

Blog written by our award-winning ski specialists, Abigail who has lived in Zermatt previously whilst working a season there. 

If you are interested in visiting the region, or any other European resorts, Abigail would be delighted to talk with you! - Contact her today. 

Research to Zermatt

For my first trip to Zermatt and Switzerland itself, Chalets Les Anges, Chalet Grace and Chalet Maurice were certainly impressive properties to start with. Little did I know what fabulous service, food and all round opulence was awaiting me!

Setback from the main town in Petit Village, the three properties are all within a short walk of each other making them perfect for large parties looking for peace and tranquility yet easy access to all the many amenities Zermatt has to offer. All the chalets boast the most stunning views of Zermatt below, with the majestic Matterhorn as an impressive backdrop. Whether you wish to lounge on the terrace with a glass of champagne or unwind in the outdoor hot tub, these impressive chalets offer you that unforgettable view that is impossible to ignore.

Chalet Grace's stunning living room with views of the Matterhorn

During my visit, I had the privilege of staying at Chalet Grace. With soft and elegant furnishings, grand open fireplace, wonderful spa facilitates and games room, this chalet is simply a dream. After a fun-filled day on the slopes, this is the perfect property to come home to and relax with an afternoon tea of delicious pastries, cakes, arrays of exotic fruits and every kind of tea imaginable! As I settled into my impossibly soft bed, I do not think I had ever felt so content.

Chalet Maurice jacuzzi deck looking out to a snowy Matterhorn in Winter

Chalet Maurice, with its private funicular for those looking to enter their chalet in style, is the epitome of modern luxury. Boasting six bedrooms over four floors with an internal elevator, this fantastic property would certainly not disappoint. With sauna, sunken jacuzzi and separate cinema room, you have everything you need for evening entertainment!

Chalet Les Anges looking stunning lit up at night!

Last, but by no means least, is Chalet Les Anges. There is no way you cannot be wowed as you walk into this beautiful chalet, with its unique and dramatic style. I was lucky enough to experience a magnificent 7 course dinner at Les Anges during my stay; with every course just as amazing as the last along with the outstanding service of our hosts who attend to your every need with no trouble at all. The most impressive part of the chalet has to be the wellness centre, with its spa, hammam, and sauna that opens onto the outdoor plunge jet pool. Even the water feature has been presented to the highest standard.

Whether you choose Maurice, Grace or Les Anges for your escape to Zermatt, you are guaranteed to have a stay you will never forget....

Written by one of our award-winning ski experts after her trip this September, Sophie Dobson

Top 6 activities for non-skiers in ski resorts

So you’ve booked your dream stay in the Alps and can’t wait to hit the slopes to shred the snow…But when there are some members of your party who do not ski. It can be a stressful thought to try and come up with ways to keep them occupied whilst you make the most of your time in the mountains.

Don’t worry! There are plenty of activities to keep even the most discerning traveler entertained and occupied...Especially with the help of our award-winning ski specialist team and concierge! To get an idea of the wonderful things that you can enjoy without skies strapped to your feet; we have compiled a list of our top six activity recommendations for non-skiers whilst staying in the resort.

Dog Sledging

Explore the mountains and plough through fresh powdery snow with a team of incredible Alaskan huskies. Whether you prefer to wrap up warm in a cosy blanket snuggled up to a love one on a sled, or taking control and standing up to drive and mush your powerful pups through the alpine countryside. Dog sledging is a fantastic experience for all ages and there is no experience necessary! 

Horse drawn carriage

Feel like you are living in a fairy-tale as you snuggle down under a cosy rug, riding through the beautiful, snowy countryside of St Moritz on a romantic horse drawn carriage ride. This is the perfect way to spend some quality time with your loved one, taking the breathtaking views of the mountains and alpine scenery whilst cuddled up and warm whilst listening to the gentle tap of the majestic horses feet in the snow.

Snow mobiling

Looking for something a little more fast paced? Discover a different side to the mountains by exploring the terrain by snow mobile. Take advantage of the emptying evening slopes and open space in Morzine by taking a tour at dusk to adventure into the valley. Great activity to do with friends, family or even by yourself!

Snow shoeing

Not the most stylish of ski wear on the slopes but this is a fun, active way to explore the mountains! Simply strap on two tennis racket like shoes and walk, run and jump around in the snow till your hearts content. You can book an off-piste a nature tour or just follow the signs and make snowy trails as you adventure around the white, powdery countryside.

Helicopter ride

One of the most incredible activities to experience and enjoy whether you are a skier or not! Take in the sensational, birds’ eye view of snow-capped mountains, glaciers and alpine forests as you fly elegantly across the Alps. For those a little more adventurous or wanting to celebrate a special occasion, why not stop off on top of a mountain for a bespoke luxury lunch on a table carved from the fresh snow? We highly recommend a helicopter ride in Verbier, Switzerland.

Spa Day

Annnnd relax! Take a break from outdoor activities and spend a well-earned lazy day in the spa. The perfect cure to relieve all of the stress from everyday life, heel sore muscles or just indulge in a fabulous pamper session. The French and Swiss Alps have some of the best spas and wellness areas in the World. Treat yourself to a range of luxury treatments, experience a traditional Turkish hammam and lounge in the Jacuzzi for a day of pure relaxation. One of our favourite spas is La Prairie spa in Le K2 5* hotel in Courchevel.  

At Elegant Address Ski, we are dedicated to finding your perfect, luxury ski chalet and creating your dream ski holiday experience. We are able organise and book a large range of incredible activities to make sure every member of your party has the most amazing holiday in the mountains. Get in touch today to talk to a ski expert to discuss how we can make your ski trip truly unforgettable.

The Best Chalet Pools In The Alps

Chalet Marco Polo, Val d'Isere

One of our favourite, most eccentric pools - Marco Polo is the oozes luxury. This pool is decorated with gold leaf, has a fantastic pull down projector to watch films as you swim and a goddess mural designed by famous fashion icon Christian Lacroix. See more of this chalet here. 

Chalet Edelwiess, Courchevel

Chalet Edelwiess is one of the most expensive properties in the Alps and definitely lives up to its reputation! This is not just an indoor pool...this is a top of the range luxury spa area with large jacuzzi, heated pool, sauna, massage rooms,star lit ceiling and spacious relaxation area around the pool. We think it is the perfect spa retreat! See more of this chalet here. 

Chalet Ma Datcha, Megeve

In one of the most sort after addresses in Megeve, Chalet Ma Datcha has an incredible outside mini spa area with a dazzling outdoor heated pool. The pool is set amongst plush gardens on a large terrace that also boasts an outdoor hot tub, gym, sauna, hammam and massage room to ensure maximum relaxation. See more of this chalet here.

Chalet L'Hotse, Val d'Isere

The relaxation zone at Chalet L'Hotse yet beautifully designed with all natural luxury materials such as oak, fur throws and high quality granite. We love the candle lit edges of the pool making this a haven of relaxation and serenity, giving it a warm and cosy atmosphere with the fur loungers. This room has Turkish baths and solarium as well as there being a state of the art cinema screen over the pool to watch your favourite shows or films. See more of this chalet here.

Le Grande Roche, Courchevel

This funky, bohemian style pool area is a fun and chic addition to Chalet Le Grande Roche. Who wouldn't want to go on that swing?! Modern and colourful decor with comfy lounge areas, TVs and steam room. See more of this chalet here.

Chalet Le Chardon, Val d'Isere

Although it is not 'technically' a swimming pool we could make this this list without the incredible, HUGE jacuzzi at Chalet Le Chardon. Best enjoyed with a champagne on ice - This amazing hot tub, embedded in a snow filled wonderland, is the biggest in the Alps. It looks like pure perfection! See more of this chalet here. 

Le K2 Chalet, Courchevel

One of the coolest looking pools in the Alps - the ultra modern swimming pool at the luxurious Le K2 Couture chalet in Courchevel. Cool hang out areas, decorative silver spheres in the pool and a huge cinema screen to watch from the pool or hot tub. This is definitely a fantastic modern take on luxury chalet interiors! See more of this chalet here.

Why book your winter ski trip now for 2016/17?

Every year we receive last minute calls from our clients, explaining their disappointment in losing out on their dream chalet from trying to book too late. Our most in-demand luxury chalets often get booked for peak weeks as early as the end of August!

Chalet Maria, Courchevel

Booking early and getting ahead of the game means that you will have prime choice of the most incredible properties, including some of the World’s best ski chalets. We can also easily match you with the most perfect chalet for you and your group’s requirements and any special requirements!   

Le Chardon, Val d'Isere

Abi, one of our fabulous ski specialist’s comments, “Now is not a natural time to start thinking about winter and definitely not natural to try and think about a snowy Christmas! But I can’t urge enough that it pays off to be organised when booking your ski trip this year. I always have a number of clients that try to book last minute but due to popular peak weeks being booked, they have to sometimes compromise. They are always the first to call to book their ski trip the following year!!  At this time of year availability is good, there is a large selection of beautiful chalets for you to see and we have plenty of time to organise your perfect luxury ski break.”

Abi on her fam trip to Meribel last season

It always feels good to be organised (and slightly smug) when it comes to booking holiday’s. Imagine just sitting back and relaxing for the rest of the year, not worrying about a last minute search but knowing your perfect chalet is waiting for you and your guests.

Chalet Le K2, Courchevel

To get started on the search for your dream luxury chalet for this winter, contact us today. We also have a selection highly private VIP chalets that are not on our website, get in touch for more details.

What age is the best to learn to ski?

When is the best age to ski? A very tricky question! This question is usually asked when parents are considering entering their children into ski school for the first time, we will breakdown how to decide whether it’s time to strap of some skis and start mastering the snow plough!

It is natural for parents to worry they will push their children too soon into trying to learn to ski but they also don’t want their children to be left behind and miss out on mastering a new skill whilst having a fun! So when is the best time for the kids to start skiing?

Too early?

How early is too early? When you see very tiny children whizzing down the slopes and around adults, it may seem that they were born with skis attached but this is a rare occurrence and goes against the general rule. There is also the increased risk that children can be put off a new hobby or ski by starting too soon. So when should they start?

Realistically, the very earliest that kids can ski is from three years old. Children under three will struggle to co-ordinate and control their skis as well as lack the strength to stay up and balance. There is also the issue of more limited communication, concentration and the need for toilet stops!

Too late?

Wondering whether you have waited too long to start teaching your child to ski or sending them to ski school can be the bigger concern for some parents. The main thing that you must remember is that progress should be measured in terms of enjoyment and happiness for the young skier not in terms of technical accomplishments and trophies.

Like most sports, an early start can help but mainly if you want them to become an international sports star. Then again, a lot of the most competent skiers didn’t learn at a very young age. Skiing, like any skill, gets mastered through a combination of natural ability and a lot of practice! With getting a lot of practice or having a natural talent for skiing means that you can start at any age.

My first experience of skiing was at the age of 15 and although I might not be shredding down the black slopes, I have a decent level of ability and absolutely love my time in the mountains! So don’t worry to those parents worrying about when to start skiing. As long as your child is enthusiastic on the slopes and loves putting on planks; they will be skiing by your side in no time!  

Our Favourite Family Friendly Ski Chalets

Chalet Nyumba, Verbier

This beautiful chalet has stunning views over the valley, a magnificent spa, outdoor hot tub and massages for mum and dad with the option of having professional nannies and babysitters on hand to entertain the kids in the chalets indoor pool or fantastic playroom with a real tepee!

Chalet Elephant Blanc, Val d’Isere

This beautiful ski in/ski out luxury chalet comes with a complimentary nanny services included in the rental for off-peak weeks! There is also a kids TV snug, plenty of toys, games and sledges to keep the children amused whilst you take on the mountains.

Mont Tremblant, Meribel

This outstanding chalet in the heart of Meribel is a child's (and grown ups!) dream with a fantastic cinema room, separate living room just for kids to hang out and play table football, table tennis and plenty of games!