Special Issue 30° Luxe Verbier 2016

special issue

VERBIER

E N E R G I Z E Y O U R W I N T E R !

Winter in the Alps, a world of magic and inspiration.

In the Verbier - Val-de-Bagnes - La Tzoumaz region, these emotions are brought to life by a snowy natural landscape and a multitude of activities.

In the largest ski area in Switzerland, fans of snow sports be they beginners or experienced athletes - get their fill of thrills.

www.verbier.ch

While riders from all over the world rave about this offpiste paradise and fun evenings, families also appreciate the resort’s social atmosphere and varied offer.

Events, hikes, snowshoeing, bobsledding, museums, good food: Verbier’s creativity is sheer energy.

Eric-a. balet

General Manager, Téléverbier S.A.

Téléverbier steps up to take on an uncertain winter...

On the heels of two half-hearted years, statistics suggest that winter 2015-2016 will finally bring us good weather and snowfall – the much-needed cocktail of conditions which is so crucial for a first rate ski experience.

Will we be getting an abundant snowfall? Will we see better levels of sunshine at the weekends compared to last year’s pitiful 23.8%? Will the quality of our ski area and all the effort put into improving the quality of our mountain top restaurants be enough to keep skiers flocking in, despite the Swiss franc being despairingly strong? We’re faced with as many questions as challenges!

While no major changes have been made on the slopes in 2015, plans are in place to prepare for the future. By 2019, no less than four new major ski lifts should be in operation, with one being built each year. In chronological order, we’re planning to rebuild Chaux 2, the Mont-Gelé, and are then hoping to build the Esserts-Savoleyres Combimix in 2018 (currently blocked due to private opposition), before renewing Médran 1 in 2019. It’s an impressive agenda which will be funded by new resources, guided by the fundamental questions which have been the basis of our successful tourism.

You can count on us, we’re counting on you to make sure this ambitious enterprise is a success!

Wishing you all a great winter!

JoËl Sciboz

Director, Verbier/Val de Bagnes Tourist Office

POSITIVE THINKING! With the Swiss franc at a record high and strangling the country’s economy, Verbier and the Val de Bagnes find themselves more resolved than ever to deliver high quality facilities and services, tailored as closely as possible to customers’ needs.

The same applies to infrastructures, which must be constantly improved. The events industry is faced with the challenge of providing new and ever more appealing attractions and perpetuating those already available.

Tourism service providers know what they’re dealing with, and many have already started adapting and revamping their offerings. Some have also altered or refurbished their amenities to give them an extra edge. Meanwhile, this winter sees the opening of new establishments in Verbier and Val de Bagnes, including a hotel and a designer boutique.

The Commune de Bagnes funds public infrastructures on an ongoing basis, always seeking to enhance users’ experience while preserving the authentic and pleasant surroundings loved by locals and cosmopolitan visitors alike.

The Val de Bagnes events calendar, already particularly busy this year with the Patrouille des Glaciers, will be packed with even more exciting attractions ranging from culinary to musical events. Add to that a whole host of activities put on by the Tourist Office in partnership with members of the local tourism sector, an enterprising ski lift operator dreaming up their fair share of new services every season, and virtually guaranteed snow, and you’ve got all the ingredients of an unforgettable stay.

And that’s exactly what we hope you have; enjoy the stunning, magical landscape, the modern facilities and high quality services to have the best of winters with us here in Verbier!

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EDITOrial V erbier is a gentle refrain, a lullaby, a soothing winter song that is music to our ears, like the tinkling bells of sleigh-pulling reindeer. The festive season is just around the corner, with its shimmering snowflakes carried on the breeze, Christmas lights, high excitement, icy weather and roaring fires. Switch off, get away from it all, rest and relax – this is what Verbier is all about!

Verbier is a two-in-one destination. Firstly, Verbier is a timeless village steeped in the traditions of the Valais region and surrounded by mountains, a place where the air is pure and the sound of footsteps in the snow are echoed by white-shrouded peaks. But Verbier has much more to offer than tradition alone.

It is a lively, vibrant ski resort that is always ready to party. A magnet for a young cosmopolitan crowd and leading figures from the worlds of sport, business and entertainment, who gather for après-ski and evening parties, another highlight of the day.

Verbier is a place where dreams come true: in the snug hideaways – the super chalets – showcasing the ultimate in luxury (we’ll take you on a visit later); in the centre of the village, which caters for selective shoppers and lovers of fine food, suitably shod in skis, of course; in the resort of Bruson, which is now linked to Verbier and is an integral part of the “4 Vallées”, Switzerland’s largest ski domain; on the powdery slopes of Mont Gelé, a haven for freeriders; on Le Rogneux, a stronghold for lovers of ski mountaineering; on the route of the famous Patrouille des Glaciers, a race that fires our dreams; and also on the east-south-east ridge of La Dent Blanche, as Gilles Sierro, the man who defied the odds, can vouch for. There can be no doubt! Wherever you look, both on and off the slopes, Verbier is the place to be when it comes to skiing and excitement.

Happy Christmas and have a good winter!

C h r i s t i a n b u g n o n _ Publisher & Editor-in-chief www.30degrees.tv

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Contents 69 News

12

FEATURE The rarefied world of super chalets

18

Melody Sky Capturing the majesty of the mountains

32

mont gelé Where freeriding reigns supreme

40

INTERVIEW Estelle Balet

47

CLAUDE-ALAIN GAILLAND’s Quest for adventure

49

Verbier les 4 Vallées Switzerland’s largest ski area

51

BRUSON The Bagnards’ favourite resort spreads its wings

53

PDG The greatest of all ski mountaineering races ends in Verbier

54

VAL DE BAGNES An essential ski mountaineering destination

56

SKI REVIEW Our pick of this season’s best skis

60

SKI BOOTS REVIEW Boots to match your feet and skis

62

Kilian Jornet Ambassador for the globe-trotter’s watch

65

GASTRONOMY Eating out in Verbier

66

Cured beef of the Valais Totally seductive

69

The Verbier Festival Looking back and ahead

71

Trends: watches

72

Trends: sport

74

Verbier Charity Night An evening of fun and fine cuisine, all for a good cause

76

Trends: design

82

72

71 DELUXE SPECIAL WINTER ISSUE 2015-2016: VERBIER | IMPRESSUM 30° Degrees (since 2002) Editing, administration and adversiting: CB Communication sàrl | Rue du Simplon 20 – Case Postale 386 | 1001 Lausanne - Suisse | info@cbcommunication.com | www.cbcommunication.com | Tel: +41 21 312 41 41, Fax: +41 21 312 41 11 | Editor-in-chief: christian.bugnon@cbcommunication.com | Assistant: melissa.hertzeisen@cbcommunication. com | Writers (in order of appearance): César Deffeyes, Laurent Grabet, Frédéric Rein, Serge Greter, Guy Michel, Christian Bugnon | Photographers (in order of appearance): François Perraudin, Goldbergh Luxury Sportswear, Yves Garneau, Melody Sky, Dom Daher, David Carlier, Thomas Roulin – Alpimages, Denis Emery, Nicolas Brodard, Roulin Thomas | alpimages@verbier.ch, Mark shapiro | Graphic design: florian.blanchard@cbcom­munication.com | (DA) christian. bugnon@cbcommunication.com | English translation: Simon Till, Paul Subrenat | Photo-offset printing: Images 3 | Printing: PCL Presses Centrales SA | Publicity: info@cbcommunication.com | Copyright: © 2015-2016 30° degrees magazine all rights reserved. All text and images published are protected by copyright. Unauthorized duplication/copying of all or any part of this magazine is strictly prohibited without the express prior permission of the rightful owners. 30° magazine, a media partner of the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) | Magazine printed in Switzerland on FSC-certified paper. This issue is also available free of charge on the iPad and on www.30degrees.tv | Cover: Photo Melody Sky | Next issue: June 2016

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François Perraudin

NEWS

DR

THE PATROUILLE DES GLACIERS BACK IN VERBIER The Patrouille des Glaciers was sorely missed in Verbier last year, and excitement is running high as we gear up for the return of the legendary ski mountaineering race. This 31st edition of the PDG promises thrills and spills as participants wind their way along the 53 km course with a 4000 m ascent amid Valais’ beautiful peaks and glaciers. Highest point on the course? 3800 m. Record to beat? 5hrs 52. Which of the 1700 three-man teams registered will be the first to cross the finish line in Verbier? All will be revealed on 24th April! www.pdg.ch

MICHAUD JEWELLERS: A DISCERNING FORM OF APRÈS-SKI If we go on about the Michaud family’s tradition and expertise it’s not to brag: it’s just that this gem of a jewellers from Neuchâtel counts four generations of a family passionate about watchmaking and jewellery. Their boutique in Verbier opened in 2011, where its elegant wares are displayed in a chic Alpine-inspired setting. With skis on the wall, raw timber, stone and wooden beams, it feels more like a super chalet than a shop... encouraging you to succumb to the splendour of designs by names such as Cartier, Breitling, Hublot (with its own special area) or Zenith. And for a more discerning form of après-ski, they hold jazz or classical music concerts on the first and last Thursday of every month. www.michaud.ch

Event: The City Ski Championships come to Verbier Europe’s financial and business community will descend on the resort on 4-7 February for a weekend of ski races, training, lunches, dinners and parties.

More than 200 participants from across the continent are expected to take part in what is a unique networking opportunity. Off the slopes, the Financial Times Alpine Forum will stage an extensive programme of activities including live concerts and après-ski events at the resort’s leading locations. All in all, it’s conclusive proof that skiing and business go well together. www.momentumski.com

Goldbergh Luxury Sportswear

FARM CLUB IS 45!

The Farm Club is the cradle of Verbier’s cosmopolitan nightlife, where it all started in 1971. Forty-five years on, and it’s still the favourite haunt for the wildest nights in Verbier. To celebrate its birthday, it has vowed to make this winter the greatest and most glamorous yet. The New Year Party which has already been announced is set to seriously ramp up the atmosphere.

Goldbergh, functional yet stylish Creating pieces with active, fashion-aware women in mind, Dutch label Goldbergh is this winter showcasing skiwear that is both trendy and yet perfectly suited to negotiating the slopes and the chilliest of temperatures. Functional yet elegant, sporty yet stylish: what more could you ask for? Exclusively at Fellay Mode & Sport, in Verbier’s main square. www.fellay-verbier.ch

www.hotelnevai.com/ farm-club-verbier

Infrastructures: Helping skier traffic flow A “spivel” – a 65 m-long metal tunnel – has been installed at the crossing on the route from Le Carrefour to the Mayentzet ski lift and the Combe de Médran.

Costing 850,000 Swiss francs, the new tunnel will allow skiers coming from Le Carrefour and those making their way from Les Ruinettes to Le Rouge to cross paths without risk of dangerous collisions.

François Perraudin

NEVAI HOTEL: STAR-STUDDED SERVICES The 287 Design Hotels® across the world stand out by their unique character, contemporary style, and love of all things pure and beautiful. The Nevai – the only affiliate in Verbier – goes one better by reinventing Alpine chic. This winter the hotel is introducing its new “dream manager” service; a genie-like VIP concierge ready to cater to your every whim. Alternatively, you can treat yourself to a fourhands massage at the Elemis Spa, or tempt your taste buds with the Japanese/Latino fusion dishes on offer in the Nomad Sushi Lounge!

Yves Garneau

www.hotelnevai.com

ski Safari A ski safari is an incomparable opportunity to truly live the Alps by immersing yourself in its pure-white landscapes and linguistic, gastronomic and cultural diversity. With more than 15 years of experience leading such expeditions, the Verbier guides offer a panoply of options to would-be explorers: A tour of Monte-Rosa, the Zermatt-Chamonix and Klosters-Andermatt routes, scaling from Léman to Jungfrau, and even a 2x2x2 safari, which includes 2 days in each of three prestigious locations: Verbier, Courmayeur and Chamonix (including the Vallée Blanche). www.guideverbier.com

www.mountainforce.com

en vente chez:

sur la place centrale – VERBIER www.xtremesports.ch

Yves Garneau

NEWS

DR

DR

CORDÉE DES ALPES: THE SPA GOES ORGANIC When December arrives, Verbier awakens. The freshly spruced up hotels reopen their doors, roll out their red carpets and proudly present their latest services. In the exquisite setting of the Cordée des Alpes hotel, the spa - partner of brands Karin Herzog and Cinq Mondes - has introduced organic treatments. How about a soothing massage with aromatic plants picked from the Napf alpine pastures near Lucerne?

And to make it really special, the spa can be privatised for a couple or for groups until 10.00 pm. Sheer bliss! www.hotelcordee.com

Dom Pérignon Rosé Rosé or red? Dom Pérignon 2004 is a glorious ode to the unique and capricious pinot noir, the result being a champagne at the very edge of its territoire, as contrasting and paradoxical as ever. Having spent ten years in the cellar, it offers fresh fruits of the forest, blood orange and cocoa aromas, followed by surprisingly acidic citrus notes in the mouth, a hallmark of the vintage. www.domperignon.com

Event: Carnival time in Verbier Verbier’s children’s carnival takes place on 6-9 February 2016 on Les Moulins piste. On the programme is a fancy-dress race, face painting, lots of fun and games and mulled wine (for the parents!). Bringing a musical touch to events will be guggenmusik group Chenegouga, who will be performing on the slopes and in the village. www.chenegouga.ch

Sport: La Tzoumaz hosts its traditional night race Headlamps and the moon combine to provide the lighting for La Tzoumaz’s night race, which takes place at 17:00 on 30 January 2016. Making use of ski skins or snow shoes, participants race each other in a time-trial that follows an uphill route through the forest between La Tzoumaz and the restaurant Chez Simon. Back at the resort, a pasta party will be held to reward competitors and their friends for their efforts. Registration required. www.latzoumaz.ch

M. Miller, American and proud Pure lines, choice materials and the timeless chic of fur collars…

The American label is turning heads once again with an understated collection that is stylish yet eminently functional and fuses luxury, fashion and technology to create a feminine, sexy look for the slopes and those après-ski moments. Exclusively at Fellay Mode & Sport, in Verbier’s main square. www.fellay-verbier.ch

Va l

d ’ I s è r e

C h a m o n i x M e g è v e Ve r b i e r C r a n s - M o n t a n a Z e r m a t t

o g i e r- s k i . c o m

Melody Sky

NEWS

DR

Dining: Italian cuisine at Le Chalet Carlsberg Le Chalet Carlsberg has gone decidedly Italian, with Téléverbier embarking on a unique collaboration with the Hotel Lido Alassio, one of the finest on Italy’s Ligurian coast. Eight of the Italian establishment’s staff – four of them from the kitchen – will spend the winter season at Verbier under the watchful eye of Veliko Cortiana, Le Chalet Carlsberg’s maître d’hôtel. www.verbierbooking.ch/en/restaurants/carlsberg-0-75

Maison Ogier Maison Ogier has been creating luxury sportswear since 1948, expressing comfort, style and elegance in each and every one of its pieces.

Appealing to a demanding clientele that sees the beauty of the slopes as a way of life, its various product lines are available at newly opened stores in Zermatt, Verbier and CransMontana, with further shops set to open in Courchevel, Aspen and Tokyo in 2017. ogier-ski.com

Technology: follow-me drones for skiers Founded by extreme freerider Xavier de Le Rue, Hexo+ has signed an agreement with Téléverbier that will give skiers and snowboarders at the Audi Skicross Hexo+ Park the chance to film themselves on their runs and then watch the footage online at the end of the day. In certain sections, users can also hire camera-equipped drones to film themselves, all with the aid of a qualified pilot.

DR

MONTPELIER: THE MOST LUXURIOUS OF 3-STAR HOTELS What makes Montpelier so special? A friendly family welcome, helpful advice, quality services and a comfortable stay, all at affordable 3-star prices. The hotel has 47 cosy rooms all exuding Swiss authenticity, from its own ski shop, to a spa area with hammam and sauna, indoor pool offering a panoramic view of the mountains and, as of this winter, a burger bar so you can refuel after a hard day on the slopes.

DR

www.montpelierverbier.ch

SKI WITH THE ELVES IN AN INTERNATIONAL ATMOSPHERE With centres in Verbier, La Tzoumaz and Crans-Montana, Les Elfes run holiday camps for children and teenagers from all over the world aged 7 to 17. Their ski and snowboard winter camps also include excursions every week offering a whole host of other activities (skating, sledging, snowshoe treks), which can be swapped for language lessons if preferred. The best bit: the evening entertainment; and you’re bound to improve your French! www.leselfes.com

The rarefied world of

super chalets Verbier’s super chalets are as stunning as they are discreet, and this holds true for “Mon Izba” and the Alpin Roc more than most. Crossing the threshold of these two jewels signed Haute Montagne and Bramble Ski is no mean feat, but our photographer managed to do just that. Let’s have a sneak peek!

A the heart of Mon Izba, the living area oozes understated Alpine luxury.

Beneath the high wooden ceiling reminiscent of the simplicity of times gone by, the dining room’s red chairs and bespoke chandelier are a statement of modern elegance.

“Mon Izba”

quintessential Verbier luxury

Text_C é sar D e f f e y e s

Photos_Y V E S G A R N E AU

Luxurious”. Often used undeservingly, this adjective could have been invented to describe Mon Izba chalet . Located in the quiet Sonalon area, a five-minute car ride from the centre and the ski lifts, this five-storey stone and old wood lodging is the very essence of luxury.

And in a resort like Verbier, where you’ll find a super chalet on every corner, that’s saying something!

Another word which abounds throughout is “space”. Each room in the maze of floors connected by a number of staircases and a lift, has a high ceiling, giving guests the impression of enjoying an abundance of oxygen. The chalet’s five bedrooms can sleep ten adults and two children and all have an en-suite bathroom and open out onto the terrace or a balcony, offering such a stunning view that the biting chill is soon forgotten. The resort and valley lie peacefully below, but what really catches the eye is the Combins mountain range and other snow-capped peaks which stand before you, whether they are sparkling under a glorious blue sky or mysteriously shrouded in a starry winter’s night.

A subtle and sophisticated interior Back inside, the Haute Montagne team are at their guests’ beck and call to make for a perfect stay. The warmth given off by the old wood throughout echoes the cosiness of the living room, with its log fire crackling away in a magnificent fireplace flanked by two windows. Then there’s the home cinema, where an immense patchwork of Persian rugs languishes alongside the requisite flat screen and we come upon a sledge cunningly turned into a seating arrangement. In each of the light-filled rooms one or two objects draw the eye without dominating it and set everything else off perfectly. The result is a subtle and sophisticated interior.

The dining room leads on to a vast kitchen and living room and is unquestionably designed for entertaining. There is also a huge snug furnished with a generous and discerning wine cellar, just the ticket for recounting tales of the day’s skiing exploits and partaking in a little après-ski. First though, you may wish to stop by the impressive basement spa; with a pool just shy of 10 m, and fully equipped massage, hammam, sauna and fitness facilities, it’s perfect for unwinding after a hard day on the slopes. All that and more leave you slightly bemused at the choice of the name “Izba” (Russian for ‘my shelter’). This is worlds away from the rustic wooden shacks of the faraway Siberian forests! www.hautemontagne.com

Out of this world: who could resist the charms of the romantic log fire in the master suite?

The chalet boasts no less than five bedrooms, all en-suite, in the warm wooden tones inherent to the setting.

f Mon Izba’s hallmark is a

blend of natural materials and objets d’art.

a What’s better than a home

cinema? Two home cinemas!

Not many chalets can make that claim!

ss For a perfect start to the

day, breakfast is served with a view over the Bagnes Valley.

ii  Sweet dreams: panoramic views from the warmth of a blissfully cosy bed. i  Three quirky barrel stools line up at the bar, separating the open-plan kitchen from the dining room

Tucked away in Mon Izba is one of Verbier’s largest indoor pools, enclosed by huge sliding glass panels.

Inhale the crisp morning air as you put in your lengths!

The pool opens out onto an outdoor terrace with jacuzzi. A perfect spot to admire the panoramic views.

The two south-facing balconies give panoramic views over the Combins.

Alpin Roc

sleek lines and an ode to nature

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Photos_Y V ES G AR N EAU

ocated in the Sonalon area in the heights of Verbier, not far from the Savoleyres ski lift, the sleek-looking Alpin Roc is an aesthete’s dream. A luxury chalet it may be, but natural materials hold sway, with wood and beautiful stone projecting an essential modernity of their own, which is just as it should be in a setting blessed by the hand of fate, populated as it is by ethereal mountains and pines blanketed in snow. Located on the second of this vast building’s three floors, a large and brightly lit living area combining a lounge, dining area and open kitchen seems to immerse itself in the eternal snows of the Combins, and is presided over by a fireplace set in an elegant stone wall and bringing warmth to the room in every sense of the word. The TV lounge in the mezzanine up above is the ideal spot for snuggling up and watching a good film whenever the weather closes in.

An oasis of tranquillity More than just places for sleeping in, the chalet’s four bedrooms invite its eight fortunate guests to soak up the atmosphere and savour the opportunity to recharge batteries amid old wood, lightly hued walls and clean lines, while admiring local craftsmanship at its best and the majestic views on offer from the south-facing balconies on the first and second floors.

Complete with a sauna and jacuzzi, of course, the spa is a haven where guests can relax and chase away the worries that gnaw away inside all of us.

Completing the scene are a garage, a ski room packed full of sophisticated equipment and a ground-floor utility room. And yet, all these facilities pale in importance when compared to the essence and soul of the place, and to the memories of the magical moments spent within its walls, safe from the elements but still at one with them. When night falls, the time comes to slide under a soothingly soft blanket of clouds.

www.brambleski.com

Though stone and wood prevail, the living room has a resolutely modern and stylish feel to it.

A lounge, dining room and open kitchen take up the lion’s share of the second floor, creating a pronounced sense of space.

The Alpin Roc chalet boasts four bedrooms, each of them, like this one, offering a snug, relaxing ambience.

Di sc ove r you r v e r b i e r w i nte r b r eAK s i n tH e sw i s s ALP s

Luxury

Style

Value

hotelcordee.com

hotelnevai.com

montpelierverbier.ch

MELODY Sky

CAPTURING THE MAJESTY OF THE MOUNTAINS This Scottish photographer swapped surf for snow when she arrived in Verbier in 2002. Judging by the way her pictures exude the essence of nature, she did the right thing!

Text _C é sar D effeyes

Photos_M e lody S k y

My job as an outdoor photographer has taken me to tons of places, but for me, the snow, sun and amount of easy-access off-piste skiing make Verbier one of the best in the world!” Melody Sky first arrived in Verbier 14 years ago. At the time, the young Scot – daughter of a hippy surfer from the McLeod clan and an amateur photographer – was more into surfing and the ocean. That’s something she returns to regularly, when she goes looking for whale sharks for example.

The 43-year-old lives in Verbier all year round, and has snapped some of her best mountain shots on the slopes. “I often adopt a photo-essay approach, because I like to capture moods, and hate getting models to pose too much”, confides the bubbly photographer, who is also a keen film maker. No matter how talented the skiers she shoots, it’s often nature that steals the limelight.

That’s no coincidence: Sky is a fervent environmentalist and often donates a cut of her profits to environmental protection groups.

skills, you just have to watch “Degrees North”, An intrepid production company a film made in Alaska last October to see how A year and a half ago, Melody Sky teamed up stellar they are! with snowboarder and fellow Verbier resident Xavier de Le Rue and four other equally reputed partners, to set up Timeline Missions. “This is www.melodysky.com my third company, which means I get to have a www.timelinemissions.com third mobile number!” laughs the overbooked business woman, who also has a hand in graphic arts. “Timeline Missions makes ski and snowboard films and benefits from a huge network of names in all areas, from mountain guides or helicopters to hotels. That’s one of our biggest assets”, explains Melody. As for the team’s artistic The Timeline Missions team in Paris for the film premiere of “Degrees North”.

New Zealander Anna Smoothy, up to her thighs in powder before a beautiful descent at the foot of the majestic Grand Combin.

Swede Malin Karlsson, in the middle of a training session for the qualifying events of the Freeride World Tour.

Swiss Jeremy Migliaccio taking on the virgin snow on the “back side” of Mont Fort.

Panoramic view taken from halfway up Mont Gélé.

ii Anna Smoothy makes the most of the last seasonal snowfalls for a memorable ride. io Jeremy Migliaccio trains on the back side of Mont Fort. i Verbier, more magical than ever, under a lovely coat of powder snow.

From the summit of Mount GelĂŠ on a clear day, the view of the Combins massif is breathtaking.

WHERE FREERIDING REIGNS SUPREME

Mount GelĂŠ is often a kingdom of powder. Its various descents are challenging and therefore not recommended for intermediate skiers.

The second-highest peak in the ski resort, Mont Gelé is where the Verbier offpiste skiing scene began back in 1966.

We take a close look at what is now an essential freeriding destination.

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Photos_Y v e s G a r n e au

nown by members of the local ski patrol teams as Lhotse because of its somewhat Himalayan appearance when the frosts set in, Mont Gelé is a snowy, wind-sculpted pyramid that rises 3,023 metres above sea level. It is, along with Mont-Fort and the Bec des Rosses, one of Verbier’s most distinctive peaks. “The construction of the cable car in 1966 made it accessible and contributed to the rise of what was known at the time as off-piste skiing and is now called freeriding,” said Eric Balet, the head of Téléverbier. Though the cable car was renovated 22 years later, it has a slightly dated look that tends to discourage the average skier.

There are copious amounts of beguiling, powdery snow at the top, however, while the non-groomed slopes have an average gradient of 35 degrees and even touch 50 degrees in places!

Enlightened amateur skiers can step out of the gondola and ski off in virtually any direction. “None of the 50 or so routes are groomed but two of them are made ‘safe’,” says Claude-Alain Gailland, a guide and the head of safety at the Verbier Xtreme. “That’s what makes Mont Gelé the ultimate freeriding mountain. And it’s a lot more accessible than the Bec too.” Do not head up there, though, without first checking the snow cover and the risk of avalanches, and make sure you are equipped with the essential beacon, shovel and probe.

The Canadian photographer Yves Garneau, now an adopted son of Bagnes, has hauled his skis and lenses there many a time. Like many, he is especially fond of the classic corridor known as La Banane and the narrower and appropriately named Hourglass, the access to which involves briefly weaving your way across a tricky ridge. “Between the two there are a lot of in-between lines to entry points that aren’t that easy to spot,” says Garneau. Make sure you do some reconnoitring or you might find your path blocked by rocks!

ii Mount Gelé is ascended via a cable car first built in 1966. i The descent, for its part, requires good off-piste technical skills.

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he baby of the Freeride World Tour (FWT) at only 20, Valais freerider Estelle Balet made her dreams come true earlier this year by turning in a stunning performance to win the snowboard freeride world title. With the new season about to get under way, the local girl is looking to keep the momentum going, both downwards on the slopes and upwards in terms of results.

You won the world title last March, in only your second season on the Freeride World Tour. Was that something you were expecting?

It was definitely my objective for the season. I’ve put in a lot of work over the last five years to achieve it and it just came at the right time for me.

What do you mean by that?

I put my studies on hold for a year so I could focus full-time on my sport.

Getting that result showed me that I’ve made the right choices, and I’ll be taking another year out from studies this season.

You didn’t make the best of starts to the season, though.

I completely messed up in the first event at Chamonix, which knocked my confidence a bit. But in the second round in Andorra I got my first win on the circuit. I said to myself that I had everything to gain and I went out and fought for it.

Having Géraldine Fasnacht by your side for five years as your coach has played an important part too, hasn’t it?

I’ve really come on quickly thanks to her, no doubt about it. I’ve also spent my happiest moments in the mountains with her.

Aside from a lot of satisfaction, what else has winning the world title brought you?

It’s made things a little bit easier with sponsors!

The new season is just around the corner. Are you feeling confident or under pressure?

A bit of both, though I’m trying not to ask myself too many questions and to just focus on having fun. I know I still have a lot of room for improvement; I need to make my runs flow better. Perhaps I should take a bit more inspiration from what the guys do. I want to let myself go more now, to be more committed with my lines and get more of a buzz. This season will be just as interesting as last year, even if I’m not looking for that first title any more.

Do you have a point to prove at the Xtreme Verbier, where you had to settle for second place?

No. Even though it’s staged in my home canton, it’s just one of many competitions.

Talking of Verbier, what ties do you have with the resort?

I live in Vercorin, but I spend my winters in Verbier. It’s the resort where I’m best able to express myself and it gives me the most options for snowboarding. There are some amazing spots in the 4 Vallées and I love the area around the Grand Combin and Mont Gelé too. And when it’s time to kick back and relax, what better than a little beer at Le Fer à Cheval?

Estelle

Balet Speaking on the eve of the new season, the 20-year-old reigning snowboard freeride world champion told us about her objectives and the bond she has with Verbier.

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CLAUDE-ALAIN GAILLAND’s QUEST

FOR ADVENTURE

Guided during the course of his action-packed life by a lucky star and his own intuition, there are not many daring challenges that the Bagnesborn adventurer has not tried his hand at.

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laude-Alain Gailland was not destined to become a mountain guide, let alone a hugely versatile adventurer. Born in 1973 into a family of skiing enthusiasts from Verségères, he has let his lucky star guide him to the steepest of slopes. “I’ve been lucky enough to stumble on the right person at the right time on so many occasions,” he explains, with the look of a child gazing into the distance. The first of the many crucial encounters that have shaped his life came when he was 11. “My primary school teacher, Jean-Louis Troillet (the father of world ski mountaineering champion Florent – Ed.) persuaded the canton to let him take his pupils ski touring every Saturday, with the Rogneux providing the essential end-of-season destination.” Mountain fever duly gripped the young Gailland, and at the age of 16 he contested his first Patrouille des Glaciers, albeit under false pretences, having entered using the name of one of his older cousins. Two years later, he won the shorter version of the PDG, a success that only sharpened his desire to push himself physically and mentally.

A canyoning pioneer A self-taught climber, Gailland began tackling 8a-graded routes with his friend Fred Roux, who would later become a well-known guide and Himalayan climber. “We spent all our free time on them, and after finishing my apprenticeship as a joiner/carpenter I decided that I wanted to train as a guide. It was a natural step for me, though I didn’t see it as an actual career plan. It was just something I wanted to work on.” Free of any pressure, Gailland passed every test at the first attempt and, in 1995, after four years of taking on odd jobs so he could pursue his passion, he took part in the very first course for canyoning guides.

His instructor was none other than extreme adventurer Mike Horn, unknown at that time, with a challenge proving irresistible for the intrepid Gailland: “Nothing is impossible as long as you do everything you can to make it possible.”

The two go-getters hit it off straightaway, with Gailland accepting the South African-born adventurer’s invitation to work for his canyoning company, which

he ended up buying. It was at this time that he became friends with the legendary mountaineer Jean Troillet. “It was a dream come true for me. I had posters of him on my bedroom wall when I was a kid,” says Gailland, who embarked on several high-altitude expeditions with his fellow mountain enthusiast.

“I’ve never had any success with the eight-thousanders,” he recalls with a smile on his face. “I had to sell my Kangoo for my first attempt but I came back with neither the peak nor the car.” Gailland does have a few firsts to his name, however: he opened a route with Roux to the Trango Towers in Pakistan, and another in the Indian state of Sikkim in 2004. It was on that particular trip that he ventured back down the valley by hydrospeed, a form of transport he got to grips with when escorting Horn on his descent of the Amazon and which he also took in navigating the Rhone all the way from its source down to Marseille.

In doing so, he descended glacier meltwater streams, virtually inventing a whole new sport in the process.

The thrills keep coming In 2003, Gailland made something of a name for himself by exploring the very boundaries of his home canton with childhood neighbour the late Sébastien Gay as part of the “Arête valaisanne” expedition. He’s also been blessed in his private life too, meeting his wife Maria, a Radio Télévision Suisse employee, during the filming of a report on Horn in Sumatra. That “other expedition”, as Gailland terms it, led to the birth of Victor eight years ago and Luna three years later. Their arrival spelled a period of calm for Gailland, who, in his very infrequent spare time, works as head of safety on the Freeride World Tour and as a private guide for a well-heeled client.

In the last few years the indefatigable Gailland has developed a passion for long-distance cycling, taking part in the legendary Race Across America – a 4,800 km “sprint” from the Pacific to the Atlantic – as well as last summer’s widely publicised Valais Grand Tour, an 80-hour non-stop event. Just as he has always done, he continues to let his intuition guide him. “I have every faith in it,” he says. “When I say ‘yes’ it’s usually straightaway, but if I need a little time to think a proposal through, even if it’s a tempting one, it’s often a sign that I ought to turn it down.” Fear of failure, injury or making a mistake seem to exert no influence whatsoever on the fortysomething wayfarer. He’s had too many unforgettable encounters, seen too many wondrous things and been on too many thrilling adventures for that to happen. www.nolimitscanyon.ch

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VERBIER

SWITZERLAND’S LARGEST IN THE 4 VALLEYS SKI AREA

Totalling 412 km of runs, winter sports enthusiasts of all abilities are spoilt for choice in Verbier and its five neighbouring resorts. An impressive line-up for snow addicts.

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ith no less than 412 km of runs, the 4 Valleys is Switzerland’s largest ski area. Verbier and its equally alluring neighbouring resorts Veysonnaz, Thyon, Nendaz, La Tzoumaz and Bruson, combine to produce an unequalled setting that every ski lover dreams of gracing with their blades. It is as sought after as Val d’Isère, Cervinia or St Anton in nearby countries.

The 4 Valleys’ high altitude and generous snowfall means the resort’s season starts getting underway as early as November, lasting right through to the end of April - and that’s not counting excursions with climbing skins which have been known to continue into July. Five whole months of snow sports! The natural layout of the area means it offers something for skiers

and snowboarders of all abilities. 92 ski lifts ferry passengers up to 8 green runs, 35 blue runs, 65 red runs and 10 black runs. On top of that there are also 9 signposted off-piste routes should you fancy trying your hand at freeriding in a safe environment. Adventuring off the slopes is a whole different experience and one Verbier’s reputation hinges on, which requires any potential avalanche victim to arm themselves with sound knowledge of the snow cover and the essential shovel-probe-transceiver kit. It’s worth noting that Verbier has a DVA (avalanche victim detector) Park which is open to the public and offers training on how to use such equipment. Local guides arrange free 1-hour training sessions every Sunday. As well as the snowpark and skicross run, this season Verbier is also introducing a fun slope next to Savoleyres to offer children their first taste of freestyle in a safe and fun environment.

The same stunning views can be admired here as elsewhere across the resort.

The most beautiful view though has to be that at the top of Mont-Fort. At an altitude of 3330m, you can look at the peaks of the Combins mountains, the Dent Blanche, the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc in the eye. But you can also soak up the magical atmosphere lower down, in the pine forests, the snow corridors or from the terrace of one of Verbier’s many high altitude restaurants. www.verbier.ch www.verbier4vallees.com

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Bruson

the Bagnards’ favourite resort spreads its wings

Since being connected to Verbier via cable car the winter before last, Bruson has seen its numbers increase. Not content to stop there, Téléverbier is planning in the medium term to build a four-seat ski lift that will raise the height of the ski area by roughly 350 meters.

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Bruson is a great little ski resort that is about to spread its wings.

It nicely complements the domain at Verbier, as it offers a different ski experience and is oriented in a different direction. It’s a favourite with the locals, and it is there, in fact, that champions William Besse and Justin Murisier, taking up the mantle of Roland Collombin, got their start.

For the Val de Bagnes locals, Bruson is the apple of their eye!” exclaims Eric-A. Balet, the director of Téléverbier, who is full of praise for the resort.

Located directly across from Verbier, it has for the last two winters been linked to the latter via high performance cable cars leaving from Châble. These first two seasons have been a great success, as between 200 and 500 skiers have made the trip daily. In the morning, the sun shines on the mountain’s northeastern face. This also attracts freeriders on days when the weather isn’t great as it allows skilled skiers to enjoy the increased visibility in the Bruson forests.

In all, the number of people on its slopes have more than doubled. These initial results are doubtless encouraging, but certainly not yet enough to cover the nearly 20 million francs invested to date in this grand project by the community of Bagnes and Téléverbier. Of this amount, a quarter has been allocated to the snow making equipment alone. The system has doubled in size this year, with a 13,000 m3 reservoir providing water to make the snow. “Five days of cold weather is enough to mechanically generate enough snow to cover the whole ski area”, exclaims Eric-A. Balet, who hopes this will attract competitive skiers to train there during the period leading up to Christmas, as some Swiss-Ski athletes have done this year already.

A new ski lift project But the best is yet to come. The four pistes (Moay, Pasay, Grand Tsai, Pissevache) and the three ski routes (Les Otanes, La Côt - Le Châble and La Côt - Bruson) are scheduled to be enhanced even further. “In particular, once the old ski lift at Pasay is replaced by a faster four-seat lift and by the construction

of a link between Pissevache and the Col de Chargerat, this will in fact extend the ski area up to an altitude of 2600 m, which is 350 meters higher that its present height, effectively doubling the distance of the runs”, explains Eric-A. Balet. A ski tow linking to the Grand Tsai piste will also be built. As part of the same project, starting in the summer of 2016, the refreshment area at la Pasay, which currently accommodates 23 people, will be enlarged to hold 110. All of these improvements are closely linked to the real estate projects underway to expand the Mayens de Bruson, “based on a zoning plan already approved prior to the Lex Weber regulations going into effect”, adds Eric-A. Balet.

An adult ski lift ticket at Bruson costs 49 francs in the high season. “The rate is on par with those of other resorts of a similar size in the region”, explains Eric-A. Balet. “Except that skiers are assured of being able to ski 120 days a year thanks to its snow making capabilities.” As for skiers holding lift tickets for Savoleyres, Verbier or Quatre-vallées, they can ski at Bruson without extra charge.

With challenging slopes and an auspicious north-east orientation that favours good snowfall, the little resort of Bruson is loved by good skiers and freeriders alike.

THE PATROUILLE DES GLACIERS

April 2016 will see the 31 st running of this famous race between Le Valais’ two major ski resorts. We take a closer look at a legendary and increasingly popular event.

Held on a majestic 53 km route between Zermatt and Verbier, the Patrouille des Glaciers boasts an elevation gain of 4,000m.

THE GREATEST OF ALL SKI MOUNTAINEERING RACES ENDS IN VERBIER

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Legendary” is a word that is invariably used to describe the Patrouille des Glaciers (PDG), which runs between Zermatt and Verbier and will next be held on 19-24 April 2016. The greatest of all ski mountaineering races, the PDG is the bellwether of a sport that has been enjoying a boom for the last ten years now. The 2014 event attracted a record field, with 1,850 participants taking to the start line. For logistical reasons that number will be cut to a still considerable 1,700 next year, all of which begs two obvious questions: What is it that makes this extremely demanding race so hugely popular?

And why has it gained such legendary status? We provide the answers, all four of them, below: ITS AGE “It’s one of the oldest ski mountaineering races in the world (the second after the Trofeo Mezzalama, founded in 1933),” says Colonel Max Contesse, the event’s commander. “It’s part of Swiss tradition and heritage.” The race, which will be held for the 31st time in 2016, was created by the Swiss army during the Second World War, in 1943 to be exact, as a test of their troops’ abilities. The event was hit by tragedy in 1949, when three competitors fell to their deaths in a crevasse, prompting it to be cancelled indefinitely. It was not run again until 1984.

Staged every two years, it now attracts increasingly large numbers of entrants, and such is the demand that a draw is held to decide who goes forward to compete in it. As was the case in its early days, the Patrouille des Glaciers continues to be supervised by the army, who bring their impeccable organisational skills to bear in staging it.

ITS DIFFICULTY The PDG is run on a 53km route with an elevation gain of nearly 4,000m, which equates to 110km without the altitude difference and offers a stiffer physical challenge than its two main rivals: the Pierre Menta, held in Le Beaufortain in Savoie (altitude difference of 10,000m but held over four days); and the Trofeo Mezzalama, which is held in the Valle d’Aosta on a 45km course with an altitude difference of 2,862m. “The Patrouille is also very challenging on a technical level,” comments Florent Troillet, a three-time winner of the event (twice on the long course and once on the short). “The roped descent on the glacier from Tête Blanche and the 200m climb without skis to La Rosablanche are especially tricky.” To take on the challenge, participants need to get 20,000m of elevation gain under their belts in training at the very least. And if you want to finish among the leaders or even beat the record of five hours and 52 minutes set in 2010 by the team formed by Troillet, Martin Anthamatten and Yannick Ecoeur, then you will need to do ten times that amount. One other factor that should not be overlooked is that a good third of the race takes place at night.

ITS ALPINE BEAUTY The Patrouille des Glaciers snakes its way between the crevasses and 4,000m peaks of Le Valais. “The highest point on the course is 3,800 metres above sea level,” explains Colonel Contesse. “It takes place in very high mountains, which means spectacular views: mountaintops, steep snowy slopes, glaciers, the Berthold Hut, which is a real eagle’s nest and Les Dix dam.

And then there’s the fact that it starts and finishes in Switzerland’s two most famous ski resorts.” What could be better than setting off from one of mountaineering’s world capitals and arriving at one of the most amazing freeride domains in the Alps? In the space of a few short hours, competitors can experience freezing Polar conditions and warm spring temperatures.

ITS ATMOSPHERE Unlike most other events, the PDG is contested by teams of three. “It means you have to know your team-mates very well and know how to progress together through hours of training,” says Contesse, who has five PDGs as a participant to his name. Though it is a race, competitors show a lot of solidarity with one another. One of the great things about the race is that it is open to both elite sportsmen and women and to keen amateurs, and there’s no prize money on offer for the winners, a hallmark of the event. All the competitors get the same enthusiastic backing from the hundreds of spectators who line the course, taking up positions at places that can only be reached after hours of strenuous effort.

“Their support really helps us,” explains Troillet, who always welcomes the buzz created by spectators at the start in Zermatt and at the finish line in Verbier. www.pdg.ch

The route across the plateau of Foll창ts Glacier, opposite the Petit Combin, will delight lovers of grandiose panoramas.

VAL DE BAGNES AN ESSENTIAL SKI MOUNTAINEERING DESTINATION

Verbier is a superb location for ski mountaineering, a sport that has grown steadily in popularity over the last ten years. One of the area’s flagship routes can be found on Mont Rogneux, a 3,084-metre peak very often capped with superb snow. Though it can take a couple of days to negotiate, rich reward awaits at the summit, where 360-degree panoramic views revive even the weariest.

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he host city of the 2015 Ski Mountaineering World Championships in February, Verbier is slowly but surely making a name for itself in the sport, a name inextricably linked with its outstanding mountain area. There are countless trails for ski tourers of all abilities to explore in the Val de Bagnes and the Vallée d’Entremont, one of the most popular and most beautiful being the climb of Le Rogneux. Presiding over the scene, just a few stones’ throws from the majestic peaks of Les Combins, this 3,084m-high mountain is known far and wide for the magnificent views it offers in fine weather, its reputation having only been enhanced by L’intégrale du Rogneux, the ski mountaineering race it hosts every winter.

Among the less strenuous routes running to Le Rogneux is one that begins at the Bruson ski-lift and has a relatively modest elevation gain of 1,000m.

Starting in the village of Lourtier, this classic route follows in the tracks of the area’s most famous son, the 2010 ski mountaineering world champion Florent Troillet, who was born here in 1981 and, as you might expect, does his training on Le Rogneux. “The snow is often superb there, thanks to the altitude and orientation,” he says. As regular as clockwork, Troillet can complete the route in just two hours 30 minutes, and does so 50 times a season.

For those of you not quite in the same shape as Florent, the climb can take two days. The first stage involves a 1,000m climb to the Brunet Hut, situated at 2,130 metres above sea level and which is open from 15 December to the end of April. For the first two thirds of the climb, the route winds its picturesque way through pine trees. After an afternoon and evening spent at a pleasant pace far from the madding crowd down below, day two brings with it the chance to complete the 1,000 metres leading to the summit, a stretch that is all moguls and powdery ridges. “There’s a big wooden cross waiting for you there and a magnificent 360-degree view of Les Combins, Mont Blanc and Le Vélan, among other peaks,” says Florent, describing a setting that is ideal for anyone wishing to brush up on their Alpine geography or test out

Ski mountaineering: a sport not without its risks Le Rogneux is, like many other mountains, prone to avalanches, one of which destroyed the old Brunet Hut one black day in February 1937, a reminder that ski mountaineering is not a sport to be taken lightly. It requires good knowledge and flexible route preparations, including regular checks of weather and avalanche forecasts. If you don’t have access to that information, then seek out the advice of a mountain guide.

i This great expanse of powder lies at the foot of the north face of With virgin snow and sunshine, Rosablanche’s white Petit Combin. o paradise offers almost endless possibilities. It can be accessed by ski lift from Verbier.

www.guideverbier.com www.meteosuisse.admin.ch http://map.geo.admin.ch (topographic maps) www.slf.ch (avalanche bulletins)

the PeakFinder app. After a hearty picnic of cheese and dry-cured meat, bien sûr, you can, if your abilities allow, head back down via the very steep northern face or just return the way you came, carving short turns as you go.

Whichever direction you take, you are sure to enjoy a feast for the eyes and some wonderful skiing.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY YVES GARNEAU

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OUR PICK OF THIS SEASON’S

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emperatures are close to zero and promising clouds loom on the horizon. Long, powder-filled days are beckoning, to the delight of snow lovers everywhere. Perhaps it’s time to trade in your wellloved skis for a new pair? If so, how to find the best combination of ultimate sensations and optimal safety? Well, that depends on each individual’s aspirations and ability. The adrenaline junkie who enjoys hurtling down freshly groomed slopes won’t be looking for the same type of skis as someone who gets a buzz from leaving their freeride tracks in virgin off-piste powder, nor someone whose idea of bliss is donning a pair of skins to revel in the peace of a solitary climb, far from the bustle of overcrowded lifts. Not forgetting those who want to enjoy all of the above at different times, which is increasingly the case. So what type of skis should you go for - specialised or multipurpose? Nicolas Costanzo helps us make sense of the choices out there and offers some pointers on finding what’s right for you.

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A – Scott Superguide 88 128/95/116 – 1330 g for 178 cm – R: 21-28-15 m The Superguide 88 replaces the Cruz’air. Featuring a wood core and Scott’s unique 3Dimension sidecut, it offers downhill performance worthy of an alpine ski. And yet it only weighs 1300 grams for 178 cm in length. A definite must-try!

D – Movement Black Apple 118/80/107 – 1300 g for 177 cm – R: 20.5 m The iconic “Red Apple” is a hard act to follow, but testing the Black Apple showed us just how reactive and dynamic a 1300 gram ski can be thanks to modern technology. This extremely versatile model has a rocker to ensure a perfect response in all types of snow.

www.scott-sports.com

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B – Black Diamond Carbon Convert 133/105/117 – 1450 g for 180 cm – R: 23 m At 1450 grams, it weighs the same as a traditional touring ski. It is very wide and performs best on powder. It has a pretty flexible tail and large rocker which procure strong sensations without requiring too much effort from the rider. As it’s made from carbon it holds its shape during twists, making it stable and precise. Speed demons are best opting for as much length as possible.

A great compromise if you’re looking for a light and versatile ski.

E – Scott Cascade 95 129/94/117 – 1350 g for 175 cm – R: 11/-/10 m This model is ideal for youngsters looking for a touring ski they can jump around with, but will also please the older crowd looking for a ski which turns easily and is less technically demanding. Its double rocker twin-tip design is an exciting feature, and it’s surprisingly stable at 1350 grams.

Its 95 mm waist provides a pleasant off-piste ride without hindering uphill banks.

www.blackdiamondequipment.com

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C – Völkl VTA 88 127/88/106 – 1230 g for 170 cm – R: 18.9 m Völkl is launching this new ski this winter. Its 88 mm waist – highly sought after in touring for the good float/turn initiation balance it strikes – offers considerable stability, despite weighing in at only 1200 grams and having a rockered tip, which means the ski is nimble and facilitates carving. Those for whom every gram counts can also opt for the lighter version which weighs about 1000 grams.

F – K2 Pinnacle 105 137/105/121 – 1725 g for 170 cm – R: 19 m This new all mountain ski comes up trumps on all types of snow, in all conditions. Although it’s slightly heavier than some of its competitors for uphill sections, it is precise, responsive and stable coming down. Don’t be fooled by its “fat” design; it is very easy to handle and has a radius of only 19 m. Recommended if you enjoy free touring, whether occasionally or intensively.

www.volkl.com

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FABIAN LENTSCH

G – Dynastar Cham 2.0 97 133/97/113 – 1710 g for 178 cm – R: 15 m Produced in the Mont-Blanc region, this ski’s tip and tail width sets it apart.

It’s highly efficient in powder, but offers a notably surprising performance in average snow or difficult conditions. In spite of its width, it has a radius of only 15 m for 178 cm which means it has a very short turn initiation, which really makes a difference in corridors. It is pleasant to climb with and boasts an accuracy, grip and ride enjoyment difficult to match. www.dynastar.com

H – Blackcrows Orb Freebird 123/90/114 – 1540 g for 179 cm – R: 18 m A lighter version of the Orb, the Freebird has a 90 mm waist and will serve you well whether it’s for a day in powder or a full-on downhill race. Its technical specifications are relatively advanced and it features a traditional camber for great grip and speed, so it’s perfect for steep descents. It is an excellent, high performance touring ski with a design that needs no introduction. www.black-crows.com

I – Dynastar Cham Alti 85 120/85/110 – 1300 g for 170 cm – R: 20 m This is an alpine touring ski for purists, specially designed for high altitude treks. It’s light going uphill and offers a firm grip and good response on the ride down. The rockered tip on this rather narrow ski will help you plane and float through powder. It’s ideal for both avid tourers and those looking for something easy to handle without requiring too much effort. The square tail grips well and offers security on steep terrain, both uphill and down.

NO S H O R TC U T S

www.dynastar.com

J – K2 Wayback 88 126/88/113 – 1350 g for 174 cm – R: 17 m Much lighter than the initial model, this all mountain ski is stable and manoeuvrable. Despite weighing slightly more than its rivals it has an efficient rocker, it is highly skiable and its sidewall ensures precision on hard snow and when turning. Ideal if you’re only going to be buying one pair of skis. Its 96 mm waisted big brother will appeal to free tourers. www.k2skis.com

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You’re here to conquer it.

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BOOTS TO MATCH YOUR FEET AND SKIS

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How well you command your skis largely depends on the stiffness and shape of your boots. This guide should help you fathom your way through the array of choices out there.

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t the risk of stating the obvious, a good pair of skis is essential for a successful time on the slopes (see previous pages). But what some skiers don’t realise, is that wearing the right boots is equally important. You might have the best skis around, but combining them with badly fitting or poor quality boots is like training hard for a marathon and setting off in flip-flops: inefficient, unsuitable, uncomfortable, and even dangerous. Fortunately, Nicolas Costanzo, a ski specialist in Lausanne, is on hand to help us pick out eight pairs of boots designed for different kinds of skiing. “You still need to be careful though - although some boots are designed for specific types of skis, the skier’s height and weight play a big part in getting a perfect fit.” warns our expert. It’s essential to seek professional advice to find the right fit for your feet.

A – F1 Evo Manual by Scarpa The successor to the famous Scarpa F1. Having abandoned the Tronic system (which enabled the boot to lock automatically in walk and ski modes) due to poor long-term reliability, this model now features a more traditional manual system. The boot, weighing in at 1200 grams, offers a lighter solution for many skiers while the BOA system holds the foot well. www.scarpa.com

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B – Spectre by La Sportiva A sturdy, versatile and lightweight boot which has taken the touring world by storm and conquered many a skier looking for a four-buckle boot of less than 1500 grams. Its key features are a comfortable liner and its sturdiness, and it is equally suitable for ski mountaineering or freeride skiing. www.sportiva.com

C – Backland Carbon by Atomic The long-awaited Backland makes its appearance this winter and is full of surprises; weighing only 1200 grams, its double-buckle system has an impressive weight-performance ratio. We expect this boot to secure itself a place in the already plentiful double-buckle market. And that’s not all: it also has a firm hold despite being so light. Another useful feature is that the flex can be altered with the tongue. This boot will no doubt be popular among tourers who don’t want to compromise. www.atomic.com

D – Maestrale RS by Scarpa The ultimate reference for skiers looking for a good blend of uphill flex and a hold worthy of a downhill racing boot. Despite weighing 1600 grams – heavier than some of its rivals – its comfort, ease of entry, buckle across the instep and Quick Step In insert means it’s unlikely to be knocked off its pedestal for the foreseeable future. www.scarpa.com

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E – Superguide Carbon by Scott Scott’s ultimate innovation. The design is inspired by their experience with the Cosmos. This boot has a Powerlite Carbon shell which affords perfect and precise foot movement on the up and guarantees a good hold coming down. And to top it off, its Gore-Tex liner is guaranteed to keep your feet nice and dry!

– Photos : © Marc Daviet

www.scott-sports.com

F – MTN Lab by Salomon After years of working on a touring ski product, Salomon reveals the fruit of their labour this winter. The brand has introduced their first specialised offering comprising two categories: Explore, for regular tourers, and Lab, for free tourers. The latter is designed for riders seeking good downhill sensations. They reportedly have a flex rating of 120. These boots are very easy to slip on and weigh in at less than 1600 grams. www.salomon.com

G – Dy.N.A Evo by Dynafit Dynafit has been revolutionising the world of touring ski boots since it brought out its Dyna boot in 2009. The most recent version of this benchmark boot weighs hardly anything – a mere 687 grams – and combines the best pieces of modern technology, namely an innovative liner for optimal power transmission and sophisticated thermal properties. These boots are perfect for skimo (ski mountaineering) racing. www.dynafit.com

H – Cosmos by Scott With a very gradual flex, these lightweight boots (1500 grams) tick all the boxes for free tourers or those who expect high performance on descents.

With four buckles providing a snug fit, these boots also offer lots of articulation for a good climb. www.scott-sports.com COL DE THORENS, FRANCE

www.julbo.com

For special moments.

Enjoy exceptional moments of indulgence with Coop’s Fine Food specialities from around the world. Our Fine Food PavÊ du Parc, for example, is a subtle, delicate soft cheese which is made with great care in the picturesque village of Rougemont. Its unique taste comes from the milk produced by cows that spend the entire summer grazing on the herb-filled pastures of the Alpine foothills in the cantons of Vaud and Fribourg. www.coop.ch/finefood

Kilian Jornet

ambassador for the globe-trotter’s watch The legendary runner, known for his speedy ascensions of some of the world’s most formidable mountains, is naturally a frequent traveller. An entirely fitting representative for the Kailash watch by Suunto.

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atalan athlete Kilian Jornet’s life is like a race against the clock, with successive records and times being notched up, each more incredible than the last. The facts speak for themselves: he is a triple world champion in the Mont Blanc Ultra-Trail (168 km), one of the most demanding races on the planet, four-time winner of the Skyrunner World Series, ski-mountaineering world champion, and record holder for the fastest ascensions of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn and Mount McKinley. Indeed, his “Summits of my life” project has seen him climb some of the world’s most legendary peaks at lightning speed, with Everest next in his sights.

Over the years he has become a living legend in mountain running. So it seems entirely fitting that he should adopt the role of watch ambassador.

And not just any watch: the Kailash, which bears the name of a sacred Tibetan mountain. “Mount

Kailash is forbidden to climb yet it’s the mountain with probably the most energy around it and inspires in every alpinist the spirit of adventure,” explains the Spanish runner, named Adventurer of the Year by readers of National Geographic. For the Finnish watchmakers Suunto, this mountain “symbolizes the drive of people who constantly push boundaries. An instinct embodied by athletes like Kilian Jornet.”

Never get lost again Out of necessity, given the challenges he sets himself, the so-called “ultra-terrestrial” has become a hardened traveller. He therefore identifies completely with this watch, at the cutting edge of technology and perfect for globe-trotters. “The Kailash is designed above all for people who travel, with its many outdoor functions which have proven very useful.” The champion goes on to list those he appreciates the most: “It indicates the altitude and automatically changes time when you land in different latitudes.

Its GPS enables you to know your precise location, and it even memorises the places you’ve already been.” A charming companion which will be adored as much by explorers as by businessmen on their extensive travels around the world.

The Suunto Kailash The traveller’s watch In design and function, this watch was born to travel. The Suunto Kailash, which takes its name from the sacred Tibetan peak, offers a vast range of fea tures valued by globetrotters, including GPS and a log book which records such details as locations visited and distances covered. And then there’s the Adventure Timeline™ function, which shows the current time alongside custom information, such as altitude, sunset/sunrise times, or number of steps taken. iPhone users can even receive message and call notifications via a mobile app. Everything you need to make life easier when you’re abroad. www.suunto.com

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Offering up to 11 gourmet dishes, La Table d’Adrien’s Mediterranean cuisine showcases local produce.

Thomas Roulin – Alpimages

Proud of its “Italian cuisine with a strong Swiss flavour”, the Restaurant La Cordée sources its staff from the other side of the Alps.

There’s lots of excellent food on offer in Verbier, not least at La Table d’Adrien and the Restaurant de la Cordée des Alpes. Two of the resort’s most highly rated eateries, they both score big in the prestigious Gault&Millau guide, which is not surprising when you set eyes on the mouthwatering cuisine their chefs serve up.

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www.hotelcordee.com www.chalet-adrien.com

Thomas Roulin – Alpimages

At Restaurant La Cordée, Italian chef Marco Bassi scores a promising 14 points with Gault&Millau.

Thomas Roulin – Alpimages

Italian cuisine and hospitality Part of the four-star La Cordée des Alpes hotel, the Restaurant La Cordée is another of the resort’s culinary flagships. Opened four years ago, it now scores a promising 14 out of 20 in the Gault&Millau guide. “That’s one point more than in 2014,” enthuses its manager Simon Le Cossec. “The praise for that goes to our Italian chef Marco Bassi and his all-Italian team.” The restaurant’s strong points are its hospitality and the “Italian cuisine with a strong Swiss flavour” served by Bassi, who was previously chef at La Table d’Adrien. Created in an open kitchen that adds to the warmth of the place, his outstanding dishes are made entirely from fresh produce. “As does the hotel, we offer a bespoke service and cater for every personal request so that our guests feel at home,” adds Le Cossec. “We also offer three different menus every winter at what are affordable prices for a high-end brasserie.” All in all, it’s no surprise that the eatery proves popular with Verbier regulars, rally driver Sébastien Loeb and a clutch of Qatari princes.

In charge at La Table d’Adrien for four years now, Ticino chef Mirto Marchesi boasts a 17-point Gault&Millau rating.

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ow a reputed haunt for the freeriding community, Verbier is less well known for the sterling contribution it is making to fine Valais cuisine. The resort is home to a number of superb eateries, chief among them La Table d’Adrien, one of the two restaurants that form part of the five-star Chalet d’Adrien hotel and which scored 17 points in the 2015 Gault&Millau guide, one more than the previous year. “Seating 30 diners, our establishment has also been honoured with a Michelin star since 2012,” says its 31-year-old Ticinoborn chef Mirto Marchesi. “It’s something that I, my assistants and our 21-strong team are extremely proud of, and it wouldn’t have been possible without them.” Describing La Table d’Adrien as a restaurant offering “A cuisine that expresses all the emotions of excellence”, Marchesi, who has been in charge there for the last four years, serves up six to 11 dishes on a menu combining Mediterranean influences and local produce, with sérac cheese from the Val de Bagnes, lamb from the hamlet of Cotterg, veal from La Ferme du Soleil and fish from Lake Geneva proving particularly popular with his guests. “It makes a change from the time-honoured lobster you find in nearly every gastronomic restaurant in the world,” he adds.

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Her passion red colour encapsulates a world of hidden pleasures. After the first bite, all resistance is futile. A true taste of tradition and temptation.

Cured beef of the Valais totally seductive

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er curves, clearly more slender and tapered than before, hint at a herculean feat. This assumption is confirmed the moment she is placed on the scale, which shows she has shed 40 to 50% of her original weight. More ravishing than ever, her taste is as rich and full as can be. After much preparation, she is ready to delight with the quintessence of her savours. The passion red that clothes her figure expresses her true nature. Valais cured beef is an irresistible seductress; only vegetarians are immune to her powers!

It bears explaining that she has long prepared for her rendez-vous with her admirers/tasters. It is a journey that begins with the thighs of Swiss bovines.

These are first coated with a mix of salt and spices. The recipe both ensures the unique expression of each individual farmer’s expertise, passed on from generation to generation, and is a means to create specific kinds of cured beef.

Next, the meat is hung and dried for 5 to 16 weeks, depending on the size of the piece. But don’t assume that it is abandoned to a lonely fate! The farmer will check up on it daily to ensure the curing process is following its course and the flavours are developing properly. Finally comes the pressing stage, which plays two important roles. It allows the pores of the meat to breathe, and it gives the cured beef its rectangular shape once it has passed under the cleaver.

From the 14th Century to the present day Exploring this process of preparation inevitably takes us back in time. Historical research has found traces of dried meat in the Valais dating back to the 14th Century. This process allowed the locals to stock durable stores of food which could sustain them during lean times or poor harvests. The combination of sun, dry climate and wind in the Rhone valley made it possible for the meat to be stored in barns or granaries without having to smoke it first, as was traditionally done elsewhere. This ancient heritage has earned the cured beef of the

Valais its own protected geographical indication (IGP) which certifies that at least one stage of the production process of this high quality Swiss speciality was performed in its place of origin. Clothed in this certification, as in a lovely dress, this cured beef, encapsulating a unique terroir and canton, makes heads turn and hearts skip!

A staple of the Valais gourmet platter Valais IGP cured beef is a proud member of the assortment of delicacies that must, without fail, make an appearance on any respectable Valais platter. To its side lies Valais cured ham, slices of dried sausage and cuts of traditional bacon. In addition to this selection of meats, one will also find cheese, particularly the Valais AOP raclette, as well as Valais AOP rye bread. The cherry on the cake? Butter, gherkins, and small onions.

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According to its founder, Martin T:son Engstroem, the 22nd edition of this classical music festival – ranked among the top 5 in Europe – was one of the very best since it was first launched. But far from resting on his laurels, his sights are set on the future.

The Verbier looking back and ahead Festival

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nce more, the echoes of this summer’s Verbier Festival could be heard far and wide, beyond the valley, a clear sign that this 22 nd edition was a resounding success. “Artistically, it was in my opinion one of our best years since we first started in 1994,” muses Martin T:son Engstroem, the festival’s founder and director. “Even though we lack a nearby airport, and we are forced to make do with a semi-permanent concert hall, some of the best artists in the world come to perform. We may not have the comforts of Lucern or Salzburg, but they enjoy the atmosphere in this natural alpine setting, unique in the world of classical music, as well as the warm reception, the raising up of new talent through our various educational programmes, and the outstanding audience, which, for its part, enjoys a unique auditory experience. I truly believe that our atypical format is becoming increasingly popular,” adds Martin T:son Engstroem. “Attendance has been relatively stable compared with last year, which is pretty good considering the strength of the Swiss franc. We only saw a small dip in visitors from abroad – who typically buy nearly 40% of our 40,000 tickets sold.”

Two outstanding hits in 2015 For Martin T:son Engstroem, the performance by Thomas Quasthoff certainly made its mark on the 2015 festival. For the first time, the German bass-baritone took on the role of conductor to direct “Saint Matthew’s Passion». «It was excellent – very moving and intense. As was the performance

by Valery Guerguiev, who played poignant homage to the dancer Maïa Plissetskaïa”, he added.

His only regret was the last-minute absence of conductor James Levine, musical director of the Verbier Festival from 1999 to 2007. “He is now handicapped, and it would have been his first trip outside the United States in 8 years. It was a double disappointment. I wanted him to come for my sake, but also for his sake, to prove that he could do it.”

Now, Martin T:son Engstroem is already looking to the future, to the upcoming 23rd edition that will be held from 22 July to 7 August 2016. “We have lots of ideas, but I can’t reveal them just yet.” But the director did let fall that the programme would include a concert version of “Carmen” led by conductor Charles Dutoit, as well as Verdi’s “Falstaff ” opera interpreted by the great singer Bryn Terfel. A future full of beautiful music! www.verbierfestival.com

trends Watches By_g u y mi c h el

HUBLOT - BIG BANG FERRARI CARBON KING GOLD The bezel’s intriguing blend of carbon and metal catches the eye first, with the King Gold alloy case adding a rather special, metallic finish: gloss microblasted to enhance its robustness. This 500-piece limited series of the Big Bang Ferrari Carbon features a Unico in-house movement mechanism, with the plate, bridges and the oscillating weight coated with black PVD visible through the dial and the sapphire case back. Available at Bijouterie Michaud – Verbier. www.hublot.com

TAG HEUER – CARRERA CONNECTED This is THE end of year launch! TAG Heuer’s first smart watch steals the Carrera design and wraps it in a 46 mm titanium or sapphire case packed with 1 Go of RAM, 4 Go of built-in memory, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, with the whole lot running off Android Wear and an Intel processor. Three digital faces are available, in black, blue or white, and all show the date window and include other details such as the chronograph counters, hands and minute track, with the aim of making the Connected look as much like a mechanical watch as possible. Available at Tag Heuer Stores. www.tagheuer.com

Tudor – FASTRIDER BLACK SHIELD The virile Fastrider Black Shield is the fruit of Tudor’s partnership with Italian motorbike manufacturer Ducati. The high-tech matte black ceramic exterior features hour, minute and seconds hands, date display, chronograph, and 30-minute and 12-hour totalisers. Inside, the automatic movement Tudor calibre 7753 purrs away. Available at Bijouterie Jacot – Verbier. www.tudorwatch.com

ZENITH – EL PRIMERO CHRONO­MASTER OPEN POWER RESERVE A successful blend of traditional watchmaking and modern audacity, an opening on the dial of this legendary Zenith model proffers a glimpse of the intricacies and magic of the inner workings of El Primero’s movement. A deserving successor of the movement first introduced in 1969, this model features a central chronograph hand, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, and a tachymeter scale harking back to the chronographs of early automobile racing. Available at Bijouterie Michaud – Verbier. www.zenith-watches.com

OFFICINE PANERAI – PANERAI RADIOMIR 1940 3 DAYS Beneath this watch’s smooth finish lies a whole lot of character.

The highly versatile Panerai Radiomir 1940 3 Days is fitted with the new calibre P.1000 and packed with an impressive 3-day power reserve thanks to its two barrels. The special alloy with a high copper content mixed with a hint of platinum used for the 5NPT red gold case keeps corrosion at bay, so you can head for the spa with peace of mind!

Available at Bijouterie Michaud – Verbier. www.panerai.com

TISSOT – CHEMIN DES TOURELLES In tribute to this watchmaker’s history, this timepiece is named after the place where it all began; Chemin des Tourelles, the street in Le Locle where Tissot opened its factory in 1907. The contemporary design features Ro­m an nu­me­rals inside an elegant coppery case, available in a variety of finishes (polished, brushed, etc.). Available at Bijouterie Jacot – Verbier.

CARTIER – ROTONDE CHRONOGRAPH Cartier extends the offering of small complication watches with this timeless design sporting elegant curves and large Roman numerals and featuring a double chronograph counter (12 hours and 30 minutes) and a date window at 6 o’clock. It boasts the first automatic movement made by Cartier, the 1904-CH. Also worth noting are its blue-tinted steel hands and coordinated blue sapphire-tipped pin.

Available at Bijouterie Michaud – Verbier.

www.tissot.ch

www.cartier.com

BREITLING – SUPEROCEAN II 36 Popular among divers since 1957, the Superocean ticks over with a Breitling 17 calibre and has been given a slimmer 36 mm case which will fit any wrist size. The redesigned bezel has graduations for the last fifteen minutes of dive time and features a luminescent dot at 12 o’clock. The numbers and hands on the dial glow in the dark, and with the Ocean Racer rubber wristband it has a resolutely sporty feel about it. Available at Bijouterie Michaud – Verbier. www.breitling.com

trends sport By_C h ri stian B u g n o n

Mountain Force – Rider Jacket The perfect symbiosis of sportiness and style, this classic jacket boasts flowing lines and catches the eye with its decorative stitching and new prints and colours. Key features include a detachable hood, an adjustable snow guard, highly functional stretch fabrics, waterproof zips and seams, an outsized back pocket and pockets for lift passes and sunglasses.

On sale at Xtreme Sports, in Verbier’s main square. www.xtremesports.ch

Sportalm: style and expertise since 1953 Famed for having its finger on the pulse and for its command of the latest trends and technology, the Austrian family skiwear brand catches the eye with its jungle-inspired collection, which comes in bright, shimmering colours and with trademark stitching and trim, and projects a look that is stylish, feminine and sporty. Exclusively at Fellay Mode & Sport, in Verbier’s main square. www.fellay-verbier.ch

The Kask Class helmet Specialists in protective helmets, the Italian brand has come up with this ergonomic design, which features a chinstrap you can adjust with your gloves on and an interchangeable panoramic visor that is four times more fogproof than traditional visors and allows you to wear glasses underneath. The inner padding is removable and washable, while the smart venting system integrated in the helmet ensures wearer comfort.

On sale at Xtreme Sports, in Verbier’s main square. www.xtremesports.ch

The Kjus Men’s Cuche Special Edition Jacket The result of collaboration between textile manufacturer Schoeller and legendary Swiss skier Didier Cuche, this sophisticated-looking jacket features a detachable hood and exclusive, hard-wearing, breathable four-way stretch fabric that guarantees complete freedom of movement.

Its award-winning AC-Vent® venting system, YKK® zips and PCM® inserts also enable enhanced body temperature management. On sale at Xtreme Sports, in Verbier’s main square. www.xtremesports.ch

Giro – EXV Contact Goggles The all-new EXV Contact goggles can be adjusted instantly to changing weather and light conditions and come with an ergonomic protective case and two different lenses that can be easily interchanged thanks to self-locating magnets. On sale at Xtreme Sports, in Verbier’s main square. www.xtremesports.ch

Schneiders: Austrian style reworked From chic down jackets with detailing inspired by traditional dress to blazers with stand-up collars, Schneiders reworks time-honoured Tyrolean style and factors in a contemporary feel. Fashioned from high-quality materials, its understated yet luxurious designs also include resolutely modern fur-lined ponchos and cardigans. Exclusively at Fellay Mode & Sport, in Verbier’s main square. www.fellay-verbier.ch

Gran Sasso, made in Italy Gran Sasso has been making pullovers in the finest materials, such as cashmere, merino wool and silk, for more than 50 years now. Crafted using a combination of traditional methods and modern techniques, the label’s latest creations once again reveal Italian fashion’s gift for chic. Exclusively at Fellay Mode & Sport, in Verbier’s main square. www.fellay-verbier.ch

SUUNTO KAILASH COPPER ADVENTURE STARTS HERE Every one of us is unique, every one born different. Yet some of us have something in common; the inexcplicable urge to explore, to know what’s around the next corner. If curiosity drives you forward and you thrive on the unknown, you might belong to the few who possess the adventure gene, 7R. Do you belong? www.suunto.com

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1 Alexis Pinturault 2 Alexis Pinturault, Armin Niederer, Alex Fiva and Adrien Théaux 3 Pierre and Nadine Fehlmann, Francine et Patrick Messeiller 4 Eric-A. Balet, Philippe Roux, Emmanuelle and Roland Colombin, Pierre Fehlmann and Gérard Michellod 5 Marzio and Caterina Perelli with Marc Girardelli in the middle 6 Marielle and Estelle Balet

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7 Daniel Guinnard, Thibaud Decoeudres and Vanessa Rueber 8 Tina Weirather, Estelle Balet, Chemmy Alcott, Fränzi Aufdenblatten, Wendy Holdener and Marc Ramseier 9 Fanny Smith and Helena Curtoni 10 Fränzi Aufdenblatten, Tina Weirather, Chemmy Alcott and Wendy Holdener 11 Helena Curtoni and Luc Alfand 12 Etienne Monnier and Laura Chaplin 12

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Verbier

An evening of fun and fine cuisine, all for a good cause

charity night Held at Les Ruinettes in April, the eighth Verbier Charity Night attracted a number of famous faces, several of them from the sporting world. 30° and its photographers were there, putting together a photo gallery of one of Verbier’s main events of the year.

The terrace at the Mouton Noir

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Marc Ramseier, Tanja Frieden, Adrien Théaux, Alexis Pinturault and Romane Faraut

A mouth-watering selection of appetizers at the Mouton Noir

Text_Laurent Grabet Photos_Roulin Thomas | alpimages@verbier.ch & Mark shapirO

t has now become a Verbier tradition, not to say something of an institution. Held at the end of winter for the last eight years, the Charity Night is an evening of good humour, fine wine, superb cuisine and good company, all with a good cause in mind. Organised by Téléverbier, this year’s event took place on 10 April 2015 in the cosy setting of the mountainside restaurant Le Mouton Noir, at Les Ruinettes (2,200m).

The event raised 70,000 Swiss Francs for two organisations: the Swiss Sports Aid Foundation, which provides financial support for Swiss sportsmen and women on their journey to the sporting elite, and Right To Play, an organisation that gives youngsters from developing countries the opportunity to play sport and games.

Sponsored this year by the Morgins skier Didier Défago, the evening brought together 230 peo-

ple at 23 tables. Seated at each of them were two celebrities and eight other diners, the guests of a generous buyer paying 4,000 Swiss Francs for the privilege. The famous faces, most of whom hailed from the sports world, included the yachtsman Yvan Ravussin, former downhill skier Luc Alphand, the tall and tireless ski mountaineering world champion Florian Troillet, the young freeride snowboarding world champion Estelle Balet, former cyclist Markus Zberg and the singers Marc Aymon and Henri Dès.

The following day, 250 members of the public pitted their skiing skills against the champions at the Verbier High Five by Carlsberg, a lighthearted multi-board competition that saw Défago and Tina Weirather emerge as the winners. The next edition of the Charity Night will take place on 15 April 2016 at Le Mouton Noir.

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BASELWORLD.COM

The one unmissable trendsetting show for the entire watch and jewellery industry, where all key players unite to unveil their latest creations and innovations.

Be a part of this premier event and experience passion, precision and perfection in action.

MARCH 17 – 24, 2016

trends design By_C h ri stian B u g n o n

UGG Australia inspired

by Yosemite Australian shoemaker UGG draws inspiration for their Autumn/Winter collection from the stunning shades and landscapes of the Yosemite national park. Its influence can be seen throughout the range, whether it’s in the choice of materials, the colours, the prints or even its hallmark practical style, for ultimate comfort as you kick the leaves around on those autumn strolls. The women’s “Meadow” model gets the same treatment, with its Toscana sheepskin lining spilling over the Chocolate version’s roll top. That’s surely reason enough to head to the hills! www.uggaustralia.com

SHAMBALLA JEWELS Must-have jewellery for the fashion-conscious, the Shamballa bracelet elegantly fuses philosophy and style. Launched in 1994 by the luxury brand Shamballa Jewels, it has firmly staked its claim as a piece of haute joaillerie. It skilfully connects gems and their colours, each with their unique benefits. Bathed in rich history, it is said to provide a feeling of wellbeing and serenity, and embodies the fundamental values of life: love, liberty, peace, compassion, tolerance, etc. Available at Bijouterie Michaud – Verbier.

Bric’s Bojola Collection Milanese luggage maker Bric revisits its emblematic Bojola line with its unerring affection for stars of the 50s and 60s. A successful blend of revamped structures, technology and retro-flavoured design result in a sleek, elegant, and sturdy yet lightweight offering. Each bag is made from long-lasting, easy clean synthetic waffle fabric and embellished with Tuscany leather details. Exclusively at Fellay Mode & Sport, in Verbier’s main square. www.brics.it

www.shamballajewels.com

QLOCKTWO - A TIME STATEMENT Two German designers, Marco Biegert and Andreas Funk, have reinvented time: forget numbers and hands - this clock tells the time in words!

Available as a bracelet watch or a standalone clock, the concept is available in 19 languages, including French - but also Chinese and Arabic! A monumental 5.5m high Qclock stands proudly before the train station in Schwäbisch Gmünd, home to the company’s head office. www.qlocktwo.com

Léman Caviar: the elegant art of penmanship Artisans at Caran d’Ache, which celebrated its centenary in 2015, looked to the endless palette of hues of Lake Geneva – Lac Léman in French – to create their elegant collection of the same name.

The Caviar pen comes in a golden copper shade reminiscent of dawn light, coated in a clear gloss varnish with an engraved pattern evoking pearly sturgeon roe. An unusually refined writing instrument... with a lifetime warranty! www.carandache.com

Aubade – Bahia range With the sensually named Neiges Brûlantes, Idylle Parisienne, or Baisers de Constantinople, Aubade’s legendary range is reinvented for winter 2015 with a haute couture twist featuring luxurious guipure lace and statement colours. Exclusively available in the Fellay Mode & Sport lingerie section, Verbier main square. www.fellay-verbier.ch

design a n d technology.

luminor 1950 10 days gmt automatic (ref. 533)

CLÉ DE CARTIER MANUFACTURE MOVEMENT 1847 MC

ESTABLISHED IN 1847, CARTIER CREATES EXCEPTIONAL WATCHES THAT COMBINE DARING DESIGN AND WATCHMAKING SAVOIR-FAIRE. CLÉ DE CARTIER OWES ITS NAME TO ITS UNIQUE CROWN. CONSIDERABLE MASTERY WAS REQUIRED TO CREATE FLUID LINES AND A HARMONIOUS ENSEMBLE, A TESTAMENT TO ACCURACY AND BALANCE. A NEW SHAPE IS BORN.