Holidays in Châtel: what to do when you're not skiing?

• Abondance Abbey: Self-guided tours, activities and lectures are available throughout the year. For more information, contact Léman Mountain Explore.
• The Abondance Cheese House: immerse yourself in the fascinating world of local dairy and cheese production, combining tradition and modern techniques. Paid visits, information on +33 (0)4 50 73 06 34.

• Go sledging on one of the resort's three secure sledging areas and rediscover your inner child.
  • Pré la Joux: Free access from the Pré la Joux car park.
  • Super Châtel: Accessible by cable car (fee applies) followed by a 15-minute walk.
  • Sous-Vonnes: Free access, on foot or by shuttle bus from the resort centre.
• Gourmet break: hot chocolate, crêpes, blueberry tart - or even raclette depending on the time of day - anything goes to combat the alpine cold 😉

MONDAY, between adrenaline and relaxation

• Ski touring excursion to discover authentic and unexpected landscapes. For experienced skiers, there are several marked trails in the Vallée d'Abondance or neighbouring Switzerland. This activity is also accessible to beginners, thanks to routes crossing the Portes du Soleil ski area, allowing for a safe ascent and descent on the ski slopes. Equipment can be hired at the resort, and information on routes in Rando Parc Châtel or Morgins (CH) is available from the tourist offices.
• Dog sledding trips departing from Châtel or La Chapelle d'Abondance – activity to be confirmed.

• The outdoor ice rink, fun for young and old alike.
• From 6pm, welcome drink in the centre of the village of Châtel. End the day on a convivial note, with the opportunity to present the week's programme of entertainment and activities, while sharing a glass of wine or hot chocolate.
• Après-ski in the resort's many bars and restaurants, to be enjoyed without moderation, and even without skis!

TUESDAY, time for challenges for body and mind!

• Electric mountain biking on snow: supervised by a state-certified instructor, on a course adapted to the level and wishes of participants. Morning or evening sessions. More information available from Châtel Tourist Office
• Cross-country skiing, classic or skating style, at the Nordic centre in La Chapelle d'Abondance! Beginners' lessons and biathlon available upon reservation.

• The Old Custom House: Châtel interpretation centre on mountain smuggling. Self-guided or guided tours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. For more information, contact Châtel Tourisme.
• Belalp Espace Game: follow in the footsteps of a famous group of smugglers from the 1930s. 1 hour of games, bookable at the Belalp hotel.
• Emile's Treasure Hunt: follow in the footsteps of this former smuggler through the streets of Châtel. 1.5 to 2.5 hour trail, bookings at the Belalp hotel.

WEDNESDAY, chill out and relax

• Visit the nearby villages of La Chapelle d'Abondance and Abondance, which welcome you with an authentic atmosphere: museums, ski slopes, hiking trails.

• Weekly market in the centre of the village of Châtel, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

• Forme d'O aquatic centre: treat yourself to a wellness break and enjoy the indoor and heated outdoor pools, saunas and hammam. For an invigorating morning, take part in group classes: aquagym, fitness and Pilates are waiting for you!
• Body and facial treatments at Spa Océane

THURSDAY, discover the village of Châtel: flavours and panoramic views!

• Visit the Cave d'Azélie in Châtel: discover how Abondance cheese is matured. Thursdays from 9.30am to 10.30am, booking required with Châtel Tourisme.

• Snowshoeing excursion, guided or independent. Information, itineraries and snow conditions available from Châtel Tourist Office.

• Portes du Culet (Super Châtel)
• Col de Bassachaux (Plaine Dranse)
• Petit Châtel circuit: an easy trail through forests and mountain pastures. Easily reach the mountain restaurants located outside the ski area for a more intimate experience. Lunch or dinner available, reservation required the day before.

FRIDAY, altitude and thrills

• Paragliding flight to enjoy local mountains, information available from Châtel Tourist Office
• The Fantasticable, Châtel's giant zip line: comfortably seated in a harness, solo or in pairs, fly over the hamlet of Plaine-Dranse at almost 100 km/h and up to 140 m high. Departure from the Rochassons chairlift, for skiers only. Information and bookings from SAEM Sports et Tourisme Châtel.
• Hot air balloon flight: a unique experience with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the French-Swiss Alps. Information and bookings from Montgolfières du Mont-Blanc (book in advance! Flight days are set the week before depending on weather conditions).

• 100% fun snow sports outing with airboarding (sledging on an air cushion), snake gliding (articulated sledges) or yooner (paret). Book in advance and meet at Pré la Joux when the slopes close.
• And finally... enjoy a delicious Savoyard fondue before leaving our beautiful valley!