'An unspoilt jewel in the Portes du Soleil's crown.'

Time Out Skiing & Snowboarding Guide 2004

'We have had a fantastic holiday. The resort is lovely and the skiing is fantastic.'

Geoff & Holly February 2004

Chatel

Picturesque Chatel offers just about everything you could want from your winter holiday.

The village of Chatel has retained its traditional savoyarde atmosphere while offering access to one of Europe's biggest ski areas, Les Portes du Soleil.

Lying right on the border with Switzerland, the Swiss influence can be seen everywhere. Traditional chalets, many of which are still working farms, make up much of the village and more recent developments have been sympathetic to retaining its character.

Shopping

In the centre you can find a variety of shops selling local foods & wines as well as arts & crafts and essential ski & snowboard equipment. The weekly market offers a chance to pick up some savoyarde specialities from local producers such as the Abondance cheeses which are unique to the valley.

Apres-ski

In the evenings Chatel's two main bars 'Le Tunnel' and 'L'Avalanche' feature live bands and theme evenings, while just down the road in La Chapelle the 'Fer Rouge' boasts it's own micro brewery serving up local real ales or 'Frasses'. Nightlife is generally a very laid back affair with a friendly atmosphere and a mix of nationalities. Prices are also refreshingly low compared to some of France's larger purpose built resorts. The village also has two cinemas, a bowling alley, an open air ice rink and night skiing is possible one night in the week on the Linga pistes. For lunch or on the chalet night off there is a wide selection of restaurants and we are happy to make recommendations or reservations.

Access

Located in the Northern Alps, access is remarkably easy and transfers from Geneva airport take only 90 minutes (these can be arranged through our partners ski-lifts.com). For those arriving by car Chatel is conveniently located close to the main Autoroutes through both France and Switzerland and is one of the closest alpine resorts to Calais and other channel ports (see Travel for more details).

More information
www.chatel.com
www.portesdusoleil.com
www.valdabondance.com
www.valaistourism.ch