Richard and Angela Anderson

Self catered holidays in the Portes du Soleil

The Portes du Soleil is one of the largest ski areas in the world, straddling the border between France and Switzerland with 194 skilifts and 266 runs. On or off piste, beginner or expert, skier or boarder, you will find something to suit and thrill you.

This is not a ski-in ski-out resort, nor does it have a glacier, so why do people keep on coming back? The snow record is superb with skiing from December through April, and there are large numbers of artificial snow machines to protect vulnerable pistes and guarantee your skiing. There are always protected areas so you will not waste days of your holiday waiting for the snow or wind to drop and with so many starting places it is always possible to find snow and avoid crowds. We recommend the Portes du Soleil ski pass to all our guests as it gives access to all areas, especially good new snow, avoiding lift queues or simply being more adventurous.

There are specialised snowparks all around for the acrobats, mountain restaurants galore for the gourmets, snowshoe trails for the nature lovers. Cross country ski trails pass the door of Chalet Arthur and there is even and dogsled riding in the village.

Group and individual lessons can be arranged at the French Ski School (ESF) or with English speaking instructors in any of the disciplines. We will put you in touch with  a school to suit your needs and advise you if asked. The wide choice of schools ensures you can get the tuition that suits you. Babies and young children can also be cared for in local creches and introduced to the snow but advance booking is essential to be sure of a place.

There are also a number of excellent natural spa baths open throughout the winter, and in the spring a trip to Lake Leman is always pleasant for a non skier.

Downhill

Cross Country

Playing

Credit Photos: J F Vuarand

Relais de la Dranse, La Pesse, La Chapelle d'Abondance,74360,France.

Contact us:       +33 4 5073 3928       email