Winter 2014 - 2015 | EN CHÂTEL Are you a CHâtellover? What kind of CHâtellover are you? Do you think of your winter holiday as a chance to recharge your batteries or rather an excuse to push it to the max? Our Châtel Test reveals the real you deep inside!

WINTER T 2015 HE BIG TEST

1. It’s been snowing! 6. I love chilling out: 11. Mountains = pleasure? Everything’s white: It’s what the mountain way of life is about. That’s why we come here! The same colour as my moon boots. Sunbathing on the terrace The mountains in winter: fantastic! I love the village when it’s blanketed in snow. of a mountain restaurant. It’s snowing, and I’m not even cold! Not a moment to lose,let’s get out there! Yes, but not too much - snowsports come first. I’m out for maximum thrills and spills. I can tell we’re going to have In the evening, after a full-on day on the piste! the time of our lives. 12. I like to get top tips: 7. Gotta keep busy: 2. Why are the pistes all They help me make the right But at my own pace. choices in the resort... different colours? Dressing up, snowman-building Especially the special offers. So there’s something for everyone. and on the merry-go-round. I just love the wild, out-of-the-way places. Do we get a choice? Skiing and competitions: bring it on! They help me choose the best pistes. I prefer the blacks. We just wanna dance in the snow. Up high it’s so full of colour! 13. Each to his own: 8. A you more “work out” For a family holiday the way we like it. 3. I can’t wait to get out in or “chill out”? To make the most of winter and the snow. THE because: I like to enjoy my holiday - no pressure. In search of performance and pleasure. I want to explore the amazing surroundings. Life is wonderful in Châtel! To get up as high as possible. I’ve been dreaming about it for so long! I’m after some brand new thrills. I want to check out the boarder cross. I’m always looking for new places to play. 14. Traditional or modern? It’s the start of the adventure. i go for: 9. Room with a view Old recipes with a modern twist… 4. Helmet or woolly hat? or character chalet? Why not both? It all comes down to comfort and safety. Don’t mind, as long as it has a mountain feel. I want to try telemark! Depends what look you’re after! Ideally, both… Skiing down between mountain chalets! Perfect for tricks As close to the pistes as possible, for convenience! Your helmet is where your Go-Pro goes… 15. Music soothes the soul… Who cares? I’ll be outside most of the time. It makes you melt with pleasure! 5. This winter I’ll be recharging my batteries… 10. There’s something here It warms the hearts of young and old. for everyone: The outdoor music concert are amazing! At the new health centre. Morning: skiing; afternoon: I prefer a snow dance to a slow dance… In the sun for my tan, shopping; evening: eating out. and in the pool for relaxation. Everyone can put together their own And my iPod batteries too - to go with my tricks. wish list - we’re on holiday. In the fresh mountain air. Music and barbecue with my mates! Up on the piste, for an adrenaline buzz! Do you think of your winter holiday as a chance to recharge your batteries or rather an excuse to push it to the max? Our Châtel Test reveals the real you deep inside! Winter’s on its way! The snow’s sparkling and the trees are glittering! Whether you prefer a roaring fire or a steep powder slope, in Châtel there’s something for everyone, from the most energetic to the most relaxed. In this brochure you will discover or re-discover all the many sides to a resort you thought you knew. Whether you’re with the family or your gang of friends, in Châtel all the pleasures of winter are within easy reach. contents

Mostly you’re: a real powder chaser 02 You like to take the fall line, hit the challenging runs and head for the promise of the peaks.

Mostly you’re:

a chancer! 08 Rock and roll the pistes! As long as there’s adrenaline and a beat on the go.

Mostly you’re:

looking for 12 charm Snow, ski, sun: you’re in your element.

Mostly you’re: child-friendly 18 You savour every moment of your family holiday. You’re a Powder Chaser! That’s because you like to shrug off the humdrum, rise to a challenge, push back the boundaries and excel yourself in all you do. In short, you’ve got bottle. To express your innermost personality you need space, commitment and freedom. You love seeking out secret spots and awesome scenery, so get ready for an eyeful… The snowy paradise of the Portes du Soleil unrolls the white carpet for you and stretches out in all its finery. Here, the magical surroundings join forces with the intoxicating mountain peaks. The breathtaking beauty of the panoramas and variety of scenery all make you want to put on your skis at the top of the mountain and set off to explore an area accessible only to true snow adventurers. With a helmet on your head and your goggles firmly in place, the pioneer inside you can’t resist the calling of the untouched spaces and their promise of never-ending pleasures.

ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 Top of Les Rochassons

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Conqueror by instinct, curious by nature. You like to get off the beaten track, make first tracks and tame the virgin snow. Obeying your instinct and in reckless pursuit of snowsports pleasures, you are there to form an intense, mesmerising relationship with the snow. But the promise of escape does not make you oblivious to the beauty of your surroundings of snow-covered trees and traditional chalets that have been part of the scenery for a very long time. ChÂTEL WINTER 2014 - 2015 04 - 05

View of Mont de Grange and Cornettes de Bise from the top of Chaux des Rosées.

Avalanche awareness at the DVA Park. What kind of skier are you? Do you like to cruise immaculately groomed pistes or venture into virgin territory? Are you a powder hound who seeks off-piste or more into making stylish turns in safe areas? Whatever you are, you’re out to enjoy your skiing to the full. And the workshop at the DVA park concerns you. With instruction from snow professionals, learn to identify natural hazards and understand how avalanches happen. Experienced and skilled members of the piste patrol will teach you how to use an avalanche transceiver. The DVA (as we call it) is more than an accessory - it’s an essential piece of kit that can save lives. The workshop is first and foremost about having fun, but provides real avalanche training. The Portes du Soleil: a model of international cooperation. The twelve ski resorts in and Switzerland that make up this ski area are of one mind. Here, exploring the mountains on skis is a continuous process, effortless and hassle-free. The pistes and ski lifts connect the different resorts, leaving you completely free to follow your nose. Ski France in the morning and Switzerland in the afternoon, or the other way around. Amazing, isn’t it? The Portes du Soleil: in Châtel, La Chapelle d’Abondance, Abondance, , , , Saint Jean d’Aulps and you are on French snow. At Morgins, Torgon, Champoussin-Les Crosets and Champéry, you ski in the Swiss region of Valais. Free yourself! Even in the hidden depths of your mind, you never dared imagine it would be this good: the snow is all around, soft and deep, so seize the day and let yourself go! …in one of the biggest ski areas in the world, with 293 pistes running through wild, unspoilt countryside.

View of Lake Geneva from Super Châtel

ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 A variety of pleasures… Riding high in a paraglider, you’ll be in your element. And to recover from your exertions – and big-time adrenaline buzz – treat yourself to a moment’s relaxation.

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Skiing in Châtel is day… and night. Still not had your fill, despite the vast ski area and variety of pistes? In that case, do yourself a favour and try the pleasures of floodlit skiing, for a new buzz you’ve never experienced before! ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 YOU’RE A CHANCER! You like to live life on a whim. You love music, rhythm and partying. You’re overflowing with vitality, grabbing life with both hands. And you like to enjoy the intense moments in life in good company. Your motto is: Châtel is for kicks! It’s the promised land. For you, Châtel is jam-packed full of magic and spellbinding charm. 08 - 09 Hang out in the snowpark and party on down with your mates: this place is awesome too!

You hate being on your own, you can’t stand being cooped up in a small space. You’re into space, light, freedom, full-on days and happening nights, with your mates in the snowpark and being spontaneous, with unexpected encounters and sharing great moments together. You’ve got a great temperament, you’re open-minded and you can turn your hand to anything. Châtel brings out the real you, and lets you be yourself. In the Portes du Soleil, open your ears… and wiggle your toes. Are your muscles screaming after a day on the pistes? Are you stiff all over and ready to drop? There’s only one remedy, one thing to do: let the rhythm take you, move on the packed dance floor, clap your hands together (it warms them up), raise your arms (it loosens you up) and join in with the singing. There’s nothing like music to round off the day on the right note. Snow and music: pure alchemy! Anything can happen… even the unexpected! Like concerts all over the ski area, in the open air in the middle of nowhere! A kaleidoscope of sounds, influences and buzzing rhythms, with the snow below and the sun above. 5th year of the Rock The Pistes festival, from 15 to 21 March 2015.

ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 Razorbike Snowbike: it’s bonkers! Under the stunned gaze of skiers, mountain bikers take to the spring snow and take on the mountain, careering downhill. In a frenzy of pedalling, they aren’t afraid to take the plunge, revelling in the adrenaline buzz. This mountain biking event on snow consists of two parts: the Derby which takes place on the Chanterelle piste down to the 10 - resort centre, and the Eight Cross. 11 These two events open to both amateurs and professionals are sure to create a spectacle!

Spring skiing: a different way You’re out for thrills, to enjoy the pistes. sensations and a host of great No more snow squalls, minus temperatures and experiences such as… having to huddle up in a down jacket. …trying new snowsports like yoonering and Get out of the shade and into the light, enjoy the longer the snakegliss, and why not snowscooting? days and soak up the sun that lingers longer on the pistes …joining in fun rides with your mates, where everyone and café terraces. Season after season, with open-air contributes their own craziness. concerts, partying around every corner and relaxation a way of life, spring skiing is fast becoming a firm favourite. …staring wide-eyed at the street entertainment, ski demo shows and fireworks lighting up the winter sky. …huddling in the bar with your grinning mates, swapping stories about your exploits and wipe-outs! You’re looking for Charm! On holiday, every day is a special day. Your free time is there for relaxing, exploring and enjoying life to the full. More than a state of mind, it’s a philosophy you apply from day to day, appreciating all the great moments in life at their true value. A winter ramble in the morning, a cultural encounter in the afternoon and a restaurant dinner in the evening: you’re in for the best time ever!

You don’t need a compass to find your way; happiness is just around the corner. All you have to do is follow your nose, then grab it. Take the time to experience things close to your heart, such as admiring the skill of a wood carver, padding along on snowshoes at your own pace, and coming across traditional chalets. Fill your day with whatever takes your fancy!

ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 12 - 13

Give in to pleasure. Give in to the pleasures of the snow and switch to the pace of life in the mountains in winter. There’s no pressure: ski with your friends or family, choose the easy runs, take the time to stop for a moment to gaze at the panorama, and save the moment for ever. Share an unforgettable experience with others and free yourself from the everyday. Take your holiday to new heights and new depths. ChÂTEL WINTER 2014 - 2015 14 - 15

Soak up the charms of an unspoilt village. You’re free to do your own thing. Imagine your winter in the mountains: as much snow as you could wish for, but also the very special atmosphere of stunning natural surroundings blessed with a strong architectural identity. At your own pace, discover the wealth of interest in the Abondance Valley, officially recognised as a ”Pays d’Art et d’Histoire”. Châtel and the Abondance Valley are just waiting to be explored, on foot, on the ski lifts, or perhaps on a trip in the little sightseeing train. The ”Forme d’O” aqua centre, your new winter destination. You’ll just love this new recreational spa centre! Located in the heart of the resort, Forme d’O offers something for everyone. Dedicated to well-being, health and fitness, it is laid out on several levels, offering both indoor and outdoor pools, a beach, a terrace, three saunas, two steam baths, massage-jet showers, a treatment room, a tea parlour, a relaxation area and a separate cardio workout room. Totalling more than four thousand square metres, Forme d’O features imposing architecture that blends in beautifully with its surroundings, and it is totally dedicated to sports and recreation. Capable of accommodating seven hundred guests, it opens on to the nearby mountains and is generously lit by natural light. At Forme d’O, boost your energy levels and dive into a world of thrilling pleasures!

ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 The Old Customs House in Châtel

A different way to discover the other side of the mountains Here, no one is forgotten. There’s something fun, exciting and fascinating for everyone… Fishing in mid-winter, walking in the crisp snow, nordic skiing, paragliding and even skiing for the disabled.

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The joys of living Oxfam Wintertrail: in the mountains. a brand new event. Outside, the snow keeps its promise of fun, escape On 7 and 8 March 2015, Châtel and the Abondance and helping you recharge your batteries. Prolong the Valley are playing host to a brand new event unique magic of winter by treating yourself to the pleasures of worldwide: a snowshoe walk for charity. This fun and our original, high-quality accommodation. Take a fresh friendly sporting event is being held to raise money for look at our mountain-style places to stay and you’ll Oxfam, which is campaigning to create a fairer world and notice the care and attention we have brought to the fight against poverty. Around 400 people are expected décor, amenities and your general well-being. The resort to take part, on the mountainside above the valley. In of Châtel is packed with examples of our remarkable teams of four, they will take on a 60-kilometre snowshoe move upmarket, and we’ve pulled out all the stops hike lasting day and night, having to complete the course to offer you space, light, elegance and sophisticated in less than 30 hours. This event is being organised in surroundings. Character and luxury are waiting for you partnership with the Abondance Valley Community of on your next holiday… Communes. ChÂTEL winter 2014 - 2015 You’re Child-friendly You like to share all the pleasures of winter with your family, taking full advantage of your holiday in the mountains. Here, we pull out all the stops to make sure parents and children can be together to share some intense and unforgettable moments. 18 - 19 A snowball fight, cruising a blue piste and family games by the fireside: Châtel has thought of everything for you and your children!

Ah! Their first hesitant steps in the snow, their giggles as they career down in a sledge, and what about their first day on skis? We all have to start somewhere. In Châtel, discovering the mountains in winter together makes it a better experience. I learned to ski in Châtel. Later, when you’re impressing your friends or your parents on a steep run or in an off-piste zone, you’ll remember… …how it all started, in good company! Learning to ski shouldn’t be like having lessons at school. This is the motto of the ski schools in Châtel, which help you progress. For beginners and improvers, their aim is to make skiing (and snowsports in general) great fun. The kids will ask for more!

ChÂTEL WINTER 2014 - 2015 20 - 21 Famille Plus Châtel is a very welcoming (and experienced) ski resort when it comes to families. Put your faith in us and bring your family to stay in Châtel. The ”Famille Plus” label, which we are honoured to hold and which marks us out from the crowd, is irrefutable proof that we are totally committed to looking after you. Families, you are welcome in Châtel!

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A mountain of activities… for all to choose. After being brave enough to try the three-person sledge – it takes your breath away! – and joining a big group having a go on the snakegliss – watch out for the turns! –, you’ll be only too glad to give the kids a hand – with or without gloves on – building a lovely snowman. Don’t forget to tie a scarf around his neck: you don’t want him to catch cold… our Champions, ambassadors for ChÂTEL

Valentin Favre Virginie Faivre Yannick Bertrand Ben Cavet Ski Mountaineering Freestyle skiing / Halfpipe Alpine Skiing Freestyle Skiing / Moguls

Hats off to our local heroes who keep the excitement going throughout the winter season. Each of them flies the flag for Châtel, in their preferred discipline. They are competitors through and through, they love to compete and rise to their sporting challenges while devoting themselves to their overriding passion: skiing.

A ski area Activities Space, quality and diversity… The mountains never sleep. Skiing at Châtel and the Portes du Soleil means On the contrary, there’s always something going you can be sure you’ll find pistes suited to your on because winter is a great time for a host of ability and pace. The ski pass for the Châtel ski indoor and outdoor activities and events that area includes 58 ski lifts and 69 pistes; or choose are fun, festive, musical, sporting, cultural and the one that covers the entire Portes du Soleil: sociable. 12 resorts in France and Switzerland, 200 lifts and 293 pistes Fun and adventure beckon. Ski schools Get on the right track… Accommodation with confidence, with the ski schools of Châtel. The keys to a successful holiday… With them, learning to ski and improving are in a hotel, holiday residence, chalet or apartment, easy. All you have to do is trust them and follow their tracks… you’ll find a great deal. All the character and For full details, comfort of staying in the mountains. see the practical guide or go to www.chatel.com

Pontarlier Strasbourg Seraing Bœrsch Getting to Châtel Berne Bâle

Mont Tremblant (CA) CH LAUSANNE GPS by air

MONTREUX Latitude: 46.269966 Geneva Cointrin airport, rail Longitude: 06.840753 services to Aigle or Thonon, then transfer by bus or taxi. A40 GENÈVE THONON Lyon EVIAN Paris by road From France, follow the autoroute by rail AIGLE towards Geneva, take the Annemasse From France, to Thonon MONTHEY exit and follow signs for Thonon. station, then bus transfer. MARTIGNY A41 From Switzerland, follow From Switzerland, to Aigle Grenoble the autoroute towards Monthey, station, then taxi or bus transfer. Marseille FR Vias take the Monthey exit and follow signs for Morgins. Aoste IT our Champions, With the Multipass, ambassadors for ChÂTEL enjoy an XXL summer for just ¤2 a day In the summer the mountains are completely different, showing you their other side and opening up a different way of exploring the countryside and meeting the people, enjoying the natural resources and wealth of heritage. You’ll appreciate not just the beauty of your surroundings but also all the activities and leisure pursuits designed specifically with you in mind. Cet été je sais quoi faire !

Le passeport de votre été pour €*Par jour seulement 2* Offre réservée à tous les vacanciers en séjour chez un hébergeur participant à l’opération. Le Multi Pass vous donne accès à plus de 50 activités en illimité dans les 12 stations-villages des Portes du Soleil. Le Multi Pass ne peut-être vendu que pour la durée totale du séjour (d’un minimum de 2 jours). Carte main libre obligatoire en sus, non remboursable : 1 €.

- Crédit photosVuarand : - 11506

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What will you be doing in Châtel this summer? The village of Châtel is twinned with: Enjoying a quiet ramble with the family, pedalling like got time to make up your mind. In the meantime, Boersch (France), crazy, lazing by the poolside, having a go at being a feel free to be inspired by our suggestions and Mont Tremblant (Canada), botanist, kicking a ball about, hanging from a wire, the host of other options on offer. Come to Châtel Seraing (Belgium), trying out the bob luge or learning to fish? You’ve and enjoy a unique and invigorating summer holiday! Vias (France). J.F. Vuarand (OT Châtel) - Jorgen Kvalsvik - J.B. Bieuville - J.M. Gouédard - V. Thiébaut - Studio Yvon - M. Vitré Yvon - M. Thiébaut - Studio V. Gouédard - Bieuville - J.M. (OT Châtel) - Jorgen Kvalsvik J.B. Vuarand J.F.

CHÂTEL tourisme - 11518 Photo credits 14, route de Thonon - BP 40 - F - 74 390 Châtel - Haute-Savoie - France Tel. 33 (0)4 50 73 22 44 - Fax. 33 (0)4 50 73 22 87 - [email protected] Document not legally binding - please dispose of responsibly. The information and prices in this document are given as a guide only may Document not legally binding - please dispose of responsibly. Tourisme Châtel rate in force on the date of purchase. VAT all taxes at The prices shownthe are in euros and include be subject to change. cannot be held responsible for any changes. www.chatel.com www.thuria.com