Carrier Luxury Ski & Snow 2011/12 by Full Circle Travel

Luxury Ski & Snow 11/12 A Collection of Winter Experiences

Luxury Ski & Snow

Luxury Ski & Snow Experience nature at its most magnificent from Europe’s alpine allure to the expansive wilderness of the USA and Canada. Each destination exudes its own charm. France – See pages 12-33

Italy – See pages 48-49

Canada – See pages 56-61

Luxury Lodges & Chalets

Drawn by the authentic bonhomie of Alpine villages, high-end hotels, excellent cuisine, heart-stopping scenery and snow-sure resorts, France has long been a favourite with British skiers of all levels. Explore the world’s largest interlinked ski terrain at Les Trois Vallées, and enjoy the unique ‘joie de vivre’ of the vibrant après-ski scene.

No other country oozes chic quite like Italy – even the well-groomed slopes exude glamour. This is where to enjoy some of the best skiing in Europe, the lift systems and snowmaking facilities being excellent. As you might expect, the Italians create a passionate and lively ski atmosphere, perfect for people watching and long lunches.

Canada’s spacious wintry wilderness offers skiing for all abilities and ages. Endless glaciers and vast fields of high altitude virgin snow merge with snow-clad forests criss-crossed with delightful long ski runs. Exhilarating mountain terrain provides challenges for skiers and boarders alike, access remote glaciers and secluded slopes for a thrilling ski adventure.

Switzerland – See pages 34-47

Austria – See pages 50-55

USA – See pages 56-61

Carrier also features a selection of luxury lodges and chic chalets in France and Switzerland’s most glamorous resorts. Choose from warmly traditional timber chalets, hamlets of lodges or designer contemporary chic, all sumptuous handpicked abodes offering the ultimate in comfort. Discreet staff attend to every detail from arranging après-ski and equipment to preparing sumptuous gourmet meals.

Chocolate box-pretty Switzerland is a visual delight of panoramic peaks and charming wooden villages. Enjoy skiing at its most stylish, the long, high runs complemented by wooded cross-country trails. Take a break from your exertions in traditional mountain huts serving heart-warming rösti, raclette and steaming mugs of hot chocolate.

The home of modern skiing, Austria lives and breathes winter sports. Characterised by fairytale vistas of charming Alpine villages dotted around glorious summits, it promises acclaimed skiing for all abilities from tentative beginner to intrepid expert. Slopes are extremely well linked and as well as après-ski partying, floodlit toboggan runs are popular.

Majestic pinnacles, expansive wilderness vistas and near-deserted slopes set stateside skiing apart. Pristine slopes boast well-groomed runs for all levels of competence; Champagne powder beckons in high bowls for unparalleled off-piste adventures. Ski through snow-dusted trees, snowboard the wide, sunny slopes or give snow tubing a spin with the family.

See pages 13, 23, 24, 30, 31 and 45

Winter Experiences

Winter Experiences From Scandinavia to the Alps, Canada to the USA, unforgettable winter experiences abound. Take a luxury tour deep into Manitoba Province to view polar bears in their natural Canadian habitat, or into Yellowstone National Park for snow-filled fun and adventure. Above the Arctic Circle in Sweden lies the famed Icehotel – created afresh each year by international artists and adorned with majestic ice sculptures. This is also ice driving terrain, an exhilarating experience designed to hone your driving skills. Lapland is the place to try husky sledding across one of Europe’s last great wildernesses. Take a Snowmobile tour into the forests around Jukkasjärvi or head for the high altitude playgrounds of Blackcomb in Canada. Perhaps most memorable of all is a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), Lapland being one of the best places to witness the myriad hues of this ultimate light show.

Winter Experiences

Icehotel

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Hotel Information 30 mins from Kiruna Airport Guide Price Prices from £910pp in low season, £1005pp in high season including economy flights and 3 nights accommodation* on a bed and breakfast basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. (*Includes 1 night Ice room and 2 nights Kaamos room)

As unique as it is transient, the Icehotel promises an unforgettable stay. Standing 200 km north of the Arctic Circle it is created afresh each year by international artists – entirely hewn from ice and snow with no two Icehotels ever the same. From mid December to mid April, guests can spend one night in the Icehotel – the temperature remaining between -5 and -8 degrees – with further nights in the cosily contemporary Kaamos rooms or chalets. Glistening ice sculptures line pillared hallways hung with ice chandeliers, whilst individually themed Art Suites feature ice furnishings and ice beds topped with thermal sleeping bags laid on reindeer skins. Dine from bowls of crystal-clear ice in the restaurant, or feast in more historical surroundings at the Old Homestead restaurant overlooking the Torne River. Don’t miss the colourful cocktails at the Absolut Icebar.

Northern Lights ~ Prices from £190pp*

Husky Sledding ~ Prices from £170pp*

September to March is the prime time for viewing the Northern Lights, with the Lapland hinterland one of the best places from which to see them due to lack of artificial light pollution. Although a sighting cannot be guaranteed, from your vantage point 200 kilometres above the Arctic Circle you could witness these billowing curtains of colour pulsating across the night sky, a moving kaleidoscope of blues, greens and pinks. Experts predict that 2012 will be the best in the last fifty years for witnessing this natural phenomenon. Choices of transport include a snowmobile tour, husky sled or Icelandic horses.

Take an exhilarating journey through the remote Arctic landscape. A magnificent pack of Alaskan huskies pulls your sled to a wilderness camp deep in northern Lapland, where a traditional Lap lunch is served. Experience a mushers challenging lifestyle as you travel through ancient forests, with experienced guides on hand to point out local wildlife. Tours around the Jukkasjärvi region range from taster sessions to trips involving an overnight stay, with the option to command your own team of huskies for a supplementary fee. Dog sled transfers to and from the airport can also be arranged.

*Based on a 4 hour excursion, including a 3 course dinner.

*Based on a 1 hour 30 minute excursion.

Ice Driving ~ Prices from £385pp*

Snowmobile Tours ~ Prices from £110pp*

With hardly any roads in this part of the world, mastering the skills of driving on ice is a must. Under the guidance of skilled instructors you will be shown how to improve your manoeuvring techniques before being taken out onto a specially-built track to test your driving skills at adrenalin-pumping speeds of up to 100 km/h. You will also gain valuable insights into the capabilities of modern vehicles and have the chance to push their stabilisation systems to the limit. Coffee and cake is served in a Sami-style tent.

After a short lesson in snowmobile driving techniques, head out into the snow-bound forest around Jukkasjärvi for a guided local tour. Ideal for those who have never driven a snowmobile before, the introductory tour takes in miles of magnificent scenery where reindeer roam, stopping for a traditional lunch in one of the wilderness camps. Overnight tours are also available, along with a tour by snowmobile to seek out a sighting of the spectacular Northern Lights. Snowmobile transfers to and from the airport can also be arranged.

*Based on a 4 hour excursion.

*Based on a 2 hour excursion.

*Single supplement available on request*

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Luxury Winter Tours

Polar Bear Adventure Tauck 6 Nights From £4210 Per Person

An opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime up close encounter with the endangered polar bears of Churchill. Discover the scenic beauty of Manitoba province, with tour attractions ranging from excursions into polar bear country and dog sledding to a private evening with the Hudson’s Bay Company of Adventurers at the Manitoba Museum. DAY 1 / Arrive Winnipeg Airport and transfer to the Fairmont Winnipeg. Located in the vibrant downtown area, spend your evening exploring the shopping and dining options of the Exchange District, or experience Winnipeg’s culture at the opera or ballet. (RO). DAY 2 / Transfer from the Fairmont Winnipeg to the Inn at the Forks in Manitoba. A sightseeing tour of Manitoba – known as the Gateway to the West – is followed by a welcome cocktail reception and dinner at Manitoba Museum. Here, examine artifacts from the Hudson Bay Company including Nonsuch, a replica of one of the company’s 17th century ships. (D). DAY 3 / Take a private charter flight to Churchill, ‘polar bear capital of the world’. Set on Hudson Bay it’s famous for the annual autumn migration of polar bears from inland to the ocean. Enjoy a guided cultural heritage tour of the town before settling in at the Lazy Bear Lodge for your 3 night stay. (BLD).

DAY 4 / Board a tundra vehicle for a full day excursion to the heart of bear country. An exhilarating experience where you can watch the antics of these majestic animals in their natural habitat, accompanied by an expert guide. (BLD). DAY 5 / Experience another day on the subarctic plains in the company of a naturalist. As well as polar bears there will be opportunities to spot snowy owls, arctic foxes and falcons. (BLD). DAY 6 / A chance to go dog sledding and to visit the Eskimo Museum showcasing the lives of Manitoba’s Inuit residents. Take a private charter flight back to Winnipeg for an overnight stay and farewell dinner at the Inn at the Forks. (BLD). DAY 7 / Return to Winnipeg airport for the overnight flight back to the UK. (B).

Departures 30 October, 2, 5, 8 November 2011 Itineraries are subject to change. Price is based on 2 people sharing a room and includes accommodation and meals as specified, transfers to Winnipeg, private charter flights between Churchill and Winnipeg, dog sledding demonstrations and a dog sled ride, services of a full-time Tauck Director. Meal basis: RO Room only, D Dinner, BLD Breakfast, lunch and dinner. 2012 departures are available on request. Other suggested activities are not included. International flights are not included. Extend your stay pre or post tour – our experienced sales team will be happy to put together alternative, bespoke itineraries.

Winter In Yellowstone Tauck 8 Nights From £2465 Per Person

The world’s first National Park remains one of the world’s most spectacular destinations – abundant in wildlife and boasting breathtaking scenery. A fantastic addition to a ski break in Aspen or Vail, our eight night winter tour ranges far and wide to encompass the iconic sights of Yellowstone at its most magically spectacular and least crowded time.

DAYS 7-8 / Continue to Jackson National Park in Wyoming, where activities include dog sledding in Jackson Hole. For a special treat take a sleigh ride to the National Elk Refuge, a sanctuary for the largest elk herd on earth. Stay at The Wort Hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. (Day 7 BL, day 8 BLD)

DAY 1 / Arrive Bozeman airport to begin our luxury coach journey. Stay at the Chico Hot Springs Lodge, Montana, nestled in the foothills of the Absaroka mountain range. (D)

DAY 9 / Return to Jackson Hole airport for the overnight flight back to the UK. (B).

DAYS 2-3 / After a swim in the hot springs, continue south along the Yellowstone River to Mammoth. Yellowstone has the highest number of active geysers in the world, as well as other geothermal features such as hot springs and mud pots. Visit ice-covered Yellowstone Lake, the largest body of water in the Park, or Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing. Stay overnight at the stylish Mammoth Hot Springs Lodge. (Day 2 BLD, day 3 BD) DAYS 4-6 / Enjoy an over-the-snow scenic vehicle ride to the Old Faithful Snow Lodge for a day at leisure. During your 3 night stay at the lodge you can take guided walks, enjoy cross-country skiing, snow shoeing or snow mobile outings. (Days 4 & 6 BLD, day 5 BD)

At Mammoth Springs and Old Faithful Snow Lodge, National Park historians are on hand, with presentations by renowned wildlife photographer Bob Lands.

Departures 17 & 26 January, 13 & 22 February 2012 Itineraries are subject to change. Price is based on 2 people sharing a room and includes transfers, accommodation and meals as specified and admission fees, services of a full-time Tauck Director. Other suggested activities are not included. Meal basis: D Dinner, BD Breakfast and dinner, BLD Breakfast, lunch and dinner, BL Breakfast and lunch. International flights are not included. Extend your stay pre or post tour – our experienced sales team will be happy to put together alternative, bespoke itineraries.

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France

Courchevel 1650 & 1850 Offering outstanding skiing, Courchevel 1650 is the second highest of the swish Courchevel villages. The resort is quieter and more typically French than Courchevel 1850, as well as being a little less expensive in the way of dining out and shopping. Set slightly apart from the rest of the Three Valleys ski area it has two lifts to take skiers up to 1850 for easy access to the Three Valleys and over 600 kilometres of pistes, while a free bus service links all four Courchevel resorts.

Chalets & Lodges ~ France

GENEVA

Chamonix Megève

Mont Blanc

CHAMBÉRY Tignes Val d’ Isère

The epitome of French chic, elegant Courchevel 1850 exudes style and sophistication, its streets peppered with designer boutiques and top-class restaurants. Its jet set crowd return each year for the unrivalled combination of glamorous lifestyle, glittering nightlife and thrilling skiing. The wide, perfectly groomed pistes are ideal for beginners, while intermediates and advanced skiers will find endless challenges.

Courchevel Les Menuires

Turin

Montgenèvre

Information

Ski Facts: 1650 & 1850

Snow: High altitude combined with excellent snow making and piste grooming ensure a good snow record.

Height of resort: 1650m/ 1850m Highest skiing point: 3230m 174 Number of lifts: (Three Valleys) 600km Total pistes length: (Three Valleys) Green runs: 13% Blue runs: 39% Red runs: 38% Black runs: 10%

Après-ski: 1650 has a good selection of bars and restaurants, a short bus ride takes you to 1850 where there is a wider choice of lively bars and exclusive nightclubs. Experiences: Dog sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, hot air ballooning, ice climbing, skating, heli-skiing, ice driving, paragliding. Flight times: London to Geneva approx 1 hour 40 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes.

Chalet Blanchot Dining Area

Chalet Petit Marmotte Bedroom

Le Portetta Mountain Lodges Belvedere, Courchevel Lodge Information 4 chalets. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Guide Price Prices from £1445pp in low season, £2325pp in high season Based on 8 sharing including breakfast for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Nestling between Courchevel 1650 and 1850 in the exclusive enclave of Belvedere, these impressive mountain lodges combine luxurious living with genuine Alpine charm, together with skiin, ski-out access to the slopes of one of the world’s largest ski areas. The four lodges – Blanchot, Marmotte, Chamois and Petit Marmotte – feature cosy interiors replete with antique furniture, cashmere fabrics and state-of-the-art amenities such as kitchens equipped with Siemens and Gaggengau appliances. Ten to twelve can sleep in Blanchot, eight to ten in Marmotte, and up to fourteen in Chamois, with the option to expand to include Petit Marmotte which sleeps two further guests. Each of the larger lodges has a heated ski room, hammam or sauna and a Playstation to keep younger guests entertained. The services of a chalet host and a private chef adept at creating exquisite classic and modern French cuisine are enhanced by breathtaking views of the mountains. A private shuttle service transports guests to all levels of Courchevel.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France

Le Portetta Hotel and Lofts Courchevel 1650

Commanding an unsurpassed location at the foot of the slopes in elegant Courchevel 1650, the hotel offers an enhanced level of relaxed Savoyard luxury. Contemporary rooms in rich woods and earthy tones provide a snug haven, some having interconnecting facilities and all overlooking the piste or mountain. Families and groups of friends will appreciate the six new stylish penthouse lofts which combine privacy with all of Le Portetta’s facilities. Stylish and well equipped, they offer an added element of luxury with the option to dine and mingle in the main hotel should you choose. Feast on seasonal classic and modern French cuisine in the restaurant – a showcase for locally grown ingredients. The Brasserie and Terrace is the perfect spot for alfresco après-ski drinks.

Hotel Information 38 rooms and 6 lofts. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1335pp in low season, £2040pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Hotel Exterior

After a day of fun on the huge Trois Vallées ski terrain, unwind to the touch of exclusive Darphin treatments in the spa. Ease aching muscles in the hamman and sauna before switching off in the candle-lit relaxation lounge.

Suite Suisse

Hotel Manali Courchevel 1650 Hotel Information 36 rooms and suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1795pp in low season, £2145pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Piste Facing Double Room

With its fusion of Alpine chic and Eastern influences, the Manali sets a new standard for luxury at 1650m. Intimate and individual, it features a choice of family rooms and suites decorated with fine dark oaks and Rajasthani marbles – oriental adornments adding an exotic air. Attention to detail is shown in thoughtful touches such as the audio sound system which extends through to the en suite bathrooms. Exciting Trois Vallées skiing is matched by adventurous gourmet dining in the restaurant, whilst the slopeside terrace provides the perfect place to lunch in the afternoon sun. Relax in the bar with its Indian-inspired décor, or for cigars and vintage wines, head for the atmospheric Kullu Mountain Club après-ski venue. Ski from the door onto the slopes or take the complimentary shuttle up to 1850m with the opportunity to unwind later with a swim or treatments in the Mahyana Spa. There is also a children’s centre and a ski rental service in the hotel.

Loft Living Space

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France

Hotel Annapurna Courchevel 1850

Exuding Alpine chic, the Annapurna is Courchevel’s highest hotel, positioned on the south facing Pralong slope to guarantee stunning scenic views and abundant sunshine. Most rooms and all suites have a balcony and large panoramic windows to maximise the vistas, the interiors being beautifully appointed and furnished with flair. During the day, lunch is served on the sunny terrace overlooking the pistes; in the evening, international cuisine is served in the highly regarded restaurant. Later, meet up to swap ski stories in the congenial bar with its welcoming fire and live piano music. To explore the delights of the swish village centre, simply hop on the hotel’s private free shuttle bus. To unwind after the day’s exertions, there is a heated indoor pool with Jacuzzi, hammam baths and saunas. Children under seven years have a well-equipped playroom, and at the in-hotel ski shop sledges can be hired for those ready to tackle the thrilling toboggan run down from 1850 to 1550.

Hotel Exterior

Hotel Information 71 rooms and suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £2385pp in low season, £2035pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Spa Pool

Le Kilimandjaro Courchevel 1850 Hotel Information 35 rooms and suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £2485pp in low season, £4210pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

At the foot of the Pralong ski runs, in Courchevel’s most prestigious quarter, this exceptionally elegant ski-in, ski-out hotel comprises eleven chalets arranged around a main lodge. Each chalet houses three to six rooms; sensational views abound over the pistes, forests and Vanoise mountains. Reserve one or more rooms or an entire chalet – you will find the level of comfort and quality of amenities is exceptional throughout. At La Table du Kilimandjaro there is an opportunity to savour Michelin-starred cuisine prepared by Nicolas Sale, whilst fine vintages from the greatest terroirs abound in the wine cellar. For cocktails and rare ‘eaux de vie’ by a roaring fire, settle back in Stanley’s Bar, one of Courchevel’s most celebrated meeting places. In addition to fine dining, discerning guests return to Le Kilimandjaro for the unparalleled indulgence of the Swiss cellular skincare treatments and massages at the Art of Beauty Centre. An indoor swimming pool and whirlpool are complemented by a well equipped gym.

Hotel Exterior

Swimming Pool

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France

La Sivolière

Courchevel 1850 Courchevel 1850 aficionados will adore this luxury boutique hideaway in the heart of the pine forest. On the Dou du Midi slope with direct access to the Trois Vallées lifts, it provides spacious contemporary accommodation with every comfort for couples and families alike. An air of luxury pervades the attractive rooms and suites, the latter featuring a sitting area, fireplace and terrace or balcony. Everything is at hand for your entertainment, including WiFi, internet connection and DVD players. Gourmet dining in the elegantly wood-panelled 1850 restaurant celebrates creative and traditional Savoyard cuisine, while the tearoom is the place for afternoon crêpes, pastries and hot chocolate drinks. Hot mulled wine and colourful cocktails are a speciality in the cosy bar.

Hotel Information

The Ski Space shop prepares you for effortless access to the slopes with equipment and rental to hand, whilst the resident ski co-ordinator will assist with every arrangement. Relax in the sauna, hammam or indoor swimming pool.

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

36 rooms, suites and apartments. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £2280pp in low season, £2675pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a room only basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

Prestige Suite

Hotel Exterior

Le Lana

Courchevel 1850

Hotel Information 85 rooms and suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1795pp in low season, £2350pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Lobby

Luxury Room

Le Lana prides itself on maintaining a tradition of understated excellence. Offering direct ski-in, ski-out access from its exceptional location in the centre of Courchevel 1850, it combines discreet service with authentic Savoyard hospitality. The generously sized and comfortably refurbished rooms and suites, which are equipped with flat screen LCD satellite television, DVD player and free WiFi, give unrivalled mountain or village views, while Courchevel’s chic boutiques and restaurants are right on the doorstep. Gastronomes will appreciate the dynamic menu at La Table du Lana, where the cuisine is overseen by Guy Martin, a 2-star Michelin chef. After the day’s exertions on the slopes, relax to jazz music in the bar with its Byzantine-inspired ceiling and deep sofas in shades of chocolate. Recreational facilities include the Lana SPA by Clarins with soothing after-ski treatments, a sauna, hammam, gym and indoor swimming pool. There’s also a ski room for hire and storage of your equipment, a billiard room and children’s play room.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France

Les Menuires Located above the old Savoyard village of St Martin de Belleville, the resort is part of the prestigious Three Valleys, the world’s largest ski area. Skiing radiates out from the town in all directions, with lifts linking directly to the ski areas around Méribel and Val Thorens. Beginners can take advantage of two dedicated nursery slopes; intermediates will enjoy the choice of long blue and red runs, whilst the black runs and off-piste trails on the upper slopes of La Masse cater for more advanced skiers. Lifts, pistes and lodgings are all thoroughly integrated, making Les Ménuires an extremely convenient destination.

France

GENEVA

Chamonix Megève

Mont Blanc

CHAMBÉRY

Tignes Val d’ Isère Courchevel

Les Menuires

Turin

Montgenèvre

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: Good snow record and La Masse’s height ensures a long season. Good snow making facilities on the west facing slopes.

Altitude of resort: Highest skiing point:

3230m

Après-ski: Choice of restaurants and bars serving good food including Savoyard specialities. On the whole, après-ski is more relaxed than some other resorts in the Three Valleys.

Total pistes length: (Three Valleys)

600km

Number of lifts: (Three Valleys)

1800m

174

Green runs:

13%

Blue runs:

39%

Flight times: London to Geneva approx 1 hour 40 minutes.

Red runs:

38%

Transfer time: Approx 2 hours.

Black runs:

10%

Experiences: Snowshoeing, tobogganing, snowmobiling, skating, sports & wellness centre.

Bar

Hotel Exterior

Kaya Chalet Hotel Les Menuires Hotel Information 50 rooms and suites. 2 hrs from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1370pp in low season, £1495pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Special Offers – Free Nights – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

With its ski-in, ski-out location just a stone’s throw from the centre of the charming Reberty Village in the scenic Belleville Valley, the hotel combines contemporary flair with sophisticated use of natural materials. Take in the mountain vistas from your private balcony facing the slopes – the comfortable Kaya suite and the two bedroom Prestige suite being ideal for families. Hearty lunches are served on the sunny terrace at Le K, where sun loungers give a chance to relax before heading back to the slopes. In the evenings, chef David Archinard creates gourmet fare of the highest standard to round off an exhilarating day’s activities. At the spa, which has a hammam and heated swimming pool, guests can enjoy an array of organic beauty and massage treatments. The hotel has its own ski shop for your convenience, together with individual ski lockers and heated boot racks. Play a game or two of snooker, or take the complimentary shuttle to the resort centre.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France

Val d’Isère & Tignes Three miles from the border with Italy, high altitude Val d’Isère offers glorious skiing from late November to late April. The slopes and glaciers of the popular Espace Killy encompass over 300 kilometres of prime ski terrain, abounding with wide crystal boulevards, moguls and challenging couloirs. Perfect for experts and intermediates, it is regarded as one of the best resorts for off-piste skiing.

Chalets & Lodges ~ France

GENEVA

Chamonix Mont Blanc

Megève

CHAMBÉRY

For the ski purist, Tignes is hard to beat. One of the highest and most snow-sure resorts in the Alps, it has an enviable snow record and a dedicated clientele who return year after year to its 300 kilometres of varied Espace Killy terrain. With swift access to neighbouring Val d’Isère, the area offers pristine powder fields, on-piste cruising for all levels and several snow parks. Glacier skiing is also popular – the Grande Motte funicular railway taking seven minutes to reach its 3000 metre-high terminus.

Tignes

Val d’ Isère

Courchevel Les Menuires

Turin

Montgenèvre

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: Val d’Isere & Tignes boast an excellent snow record.

Height of resort: Val d’Isere: Tignes:

1850m 2100m

Highest skiing point:

3445m

Total pistes length: (Espace Killy area)

300km

Après-ski: Energetic, lively après-ski with many bars and restaurants to choose from. Experiences Val d’Isere: Ice driving, skating, dog sledding, ice climbing, parasailing and snowmobiling.

Number of lifts: (Espace Killy area)

Experiences Tignes: Heli-skiing, ice climbing, ice driving, ice karting, ski joering (being pulled by horses), snowmobiling, tobogganing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing.

Green runs:

15%

Flight times: London to Geneva approx 1 hour 40 minutes.

Blue runs:

42%

Transfer time Val d’ Isere: Approx 3 hours from Geneva Airport.

Red runs:

26%

Transfer time Tignes: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes from Geneva Airport.

Black runs:

17%

Chardon Living Space

Kilimanjaro Dining Area

Le Chardon Mountain Lodges ~ Val d’Isère Lodge Information 5 chalets. 3 hrs from Geneva Airport. Guide Price Prices from £1295pp in low season, £2580pp in high season based on 8 sharing on a full board basis for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Lying in the exclusive enclave of Legettaz, close to Val d’Isère’s chic centre, this boutique collection of five luxury lodges boasts enviable ski-in, ski-out access. Ranging in size from the Kilimanjaro which accommodates 8 guests to Le Chardon which caters for up to 20, the chalets are sumptuously furnished in marble and Savoyard woods. Offering a fully catered bespoke service, a private chef, chauffeur, concierge and experienced chalet hosts are on hand to arrange everything from delivering your lift pass to you with your first breakfast and arranging lunch reservations at the best mountain restaurants, to ski hire and lessons. Gourmet breakfasts start the day and afternoon tea awaits your return from the slopes, followed by champagne, canapés and gourmet evening meals accompanied by sommelier-selected wines. For après-ski relaxation, each chalet has its own hot tub to soak away the aches of the day, an expansive terrace and plenty of games and activities for children. Massages can be arranged for adults.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France ~ Chalets & Lodges

France

Chalets Pearl Val d’Isère

Utterly stylish and palatially spacious, the Black Pearl and White Pearl chalets provide excellent access to the superb L’Espace Killy ski terrain, being just two minutes’ chauffeured drive in the chalets’ own 4x4 vehicles from the lifts. Designed by Philippe Capezzone, owner of Le Kilimandjaro in Courchevel 1850, the chalets mix contemporary flair with traditional Savoyard stone and wood panelling, each having a living room with oversized armchairs, open fireplace and up-to-the-minute technology including Bose sound systems. Large picture windows lead onto a sun terrace, while an open plan dining area provides the perfect space to host impromptu get togethers. Offering the ultimate in comfort and service, the properties have their own host to oversee meals and arrangements.

Hotel Information 2 chalets. 3 hrs from Geneva Airport. Guide Price Prices from £1895pp in low season, £3220pp in high season based on 10 sharing on a full board basis for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Swimming Pool

Each chalet boasts a magnificent indoor swimming pool on the ground floor, complete with jet stream and hammam. Additionally there is a home cinema projector screen with DVD and Playstation games, together with a ski room equipped with boot warmers.

Contemporary Room

Les Barmes de l’Ours Val d’Isère Hotel Information 76 rooms and suites. 3 hrs from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1845pp in low season, £3320pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Blacl Pearl Bedroom

White Pearl Dining Area

At the foot of the famous Bellevarde Olympic ski run, this charming chalet-style hotel characterises the epitome of luxury in Val d’Isère, combining a superb ski-in, ski-out location, lavish dining options and an outstanding spa. Just a short walk from the hotel is the lively village centre and the ski lifts linking to the vast Espace Killy. Each of the hotel’s four levels offers a contrasting style of accommodation – Contemporary, American Lodge, Scandinavian and Alpine Chalet – and all attain the highest standards, some with Jacuzzi bath and fireplaces. Dining choices include La Rôtisserie for slope side lunches on the terrace, raclette and fondue at Le Coin Savoyard and Michelin-starred gastronomy at La Table del’Ours. Afterwards retire for digestifs in the cosy lounge with crackling log fire. Après-ski relaxation is found in the Comfort Zone, one of the Alps’ largest spas with eleven treatment rooms, heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi and hammam. The sports boutique offers in-house ski rental making the slopes even more accessible.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France

Hotel Les Suites du Nevada Tignes

Exuding Savoyard ambience, this immaculate hotel comprises just twenty five spacious suites. Rich fabrics and contemporary touches abound, expansive bathrooms featuring rain showers and whirlpool baths. Clad in local stone and pine, the chalet-style hotel sits in the heart of the Tignes Val Claret, with close access to the slopes, Grand Motte glacier and the Espace Killy ski area, linked with Val d’Isère. Gourmet local cuisine is served at La Table en Montagne, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Jean Michel Bouvier – a keen advocate of the use of fresh local produce. Afterwards, slip away to the Withney Bar for a cocktail around the striking sculpted fireplace, designed by René Broissand. After a day on the slopes, be soothed in the spa, where a sauna and Jacuzzi are complemented by a steam bath. Aside from skiing there is nearby snow shoeing and dog sledding, whilst youngsters will be entertained in the nearby ski school children’s club.

Terrace

Hotel Information 25 suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars Luxury. Guide Price Prices from £1310pp in low season, £1940pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Special Offers – Family Offer – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Deluxe Room

Le Savoie Val d’Isère Hotel Information 25 rooms and suites. 3 hrs from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1725pp in low season, £2165pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Guests have been enjoying unique Savoyard hospitality since 1937 in this prime location in the heart of Val d’Isère, within easy walking distance of the ski lifts and ski school meeting point. Recently renovated in contemporary chalet style, the property encompasses twenty five spacious rooms and suites, elegantly furnished and replete with every comfort. To complement the restaurant’s exquisite French cuisine, Alexandre Giraud and Chef Alexandre Fabris have brought in leading oenologists and an experienced sommelier to determine the best possible pairings of food and wine. After the exhilaration of the slopes, unwind in the Champagne bar where well-known Champagnes stand side by side with high quality bottles from smaller producers, or enjoy a wide selection of tapas in the Wine Not bar. A sauna, Jacuzzi, hammam and swimming pool provide relaxation and restoration, luxurious treatments are available in the spa. A complimentary hotel shuttle service is available to the ski lifts and ski school meeting point.

Suite du Nevada

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France

GENEVA

Megève & Chamonix Long a fashionable choice of the beau monde, Megève exudes old town charm.There’s a relaxed feel to the skiing, which encompasses the areas of Mont d’Arbois, Rochbrune and Le Jaillet – a total of over 300 kilometres of piste including some enchanting woodland runs. Views up to Mont Blanc are simply breathtaking, as is the off-piste skiing for advanced skiers.

Chamonix Mont Blanc

Megève CHAMBÉRY

Tignes

Val d’ Isère

Courchevel Les Menuires

Nestled beneath Mont Blanc in the Haute-Savoie, Chamonix has long been popular with accomplished skiers and snowboarders, its extensive steep terrain offering a wide spectrum of challenges. Less experienced skiers are also well catered for, with access to the slopes being quick and easy thanks to a combination of cable cars, chairlifts and gondolas.

Turin

Montgenèvre

Information

Ski Facts: Megève

Snow: Chamonix has a good snow record with high altitude skiing, whilst extensive snow cannons in Megève ensure good snow cover.

Height of resort:

1100m

Height of resort:

1035m

Highest skiing point:

2355m

Highest skiing point:

3840m

Après-ski: Just 10 mins by taxi from Les Houches, Chamonix has lively après-ski with a choice of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Megève has a more relaxed atmosphere.

Total pistes length:

325km

Total pistes legnth:

155km

Experiences Chamonix: Dog sledding, skating, cross country skiing and paragliding. Megève: Tobogganing, hot air balloon rides, horse drawn sleigh rides and dog sledding.

Number of lifts:

Ski Facts: Chamonix

Number of lifts:

Green runs:

17%

Green runs:

16%

Blue runs:

30%

Blue runs:

36%

Red runs:

40%

Red runs:

32%

Black runs:

13%

Black runs:

16%

Classic Bedroom

Lounge Area

Flight times: London to Geneva approx 1 hour and 40 minutes. Transfer times: Approx 1 hour from Geneva Airport.

L’Alpaga Hotel Megève Hotel Information 22 rooms. 1 hr from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1155pp in low season, £1585p in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Just a few steps from the picture-postcard hamlet of Alpaga and not far from the centre of sophisticated Megève, this recently opened member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World encompasses five magnificent chalet buildings. Vistas abound towards Mont Blanc and the surrounding summits, whilst contemporary interiors are adorned with cashmere rugs and rich faux furs, combined with wood and stone to create a sumptuous yet understated ambience. All rooms come complete with the latest technology and luxurious bathrooms. A mountain-style ‘bistronomic’ restaurant and a cosy lounge bar open out onto a sun-blessed terrace that provides the perfect spot to relax. A boutique spa with dark stone indoor swimming pool, fitness suite and hammam offers beauty treatments and massages. Take a stroll down the car-free cobbled streets of the town centre which are lined with beautiful old chalet buildings and high end boutique shops, or indulge in a range of sporting activities including sledding and ice skating.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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France ~ Chalets & Lodges

Chalets & Lodges ~ France

Les Granges d’en Haut

Les Houches – Chamonix Valley With soul-stirring views across the Mont Blanc massif, this boutique hamlet of exclusive chalets offers privacy and fully indulged luxury, combined with five star hotel service. Inspired by Alpine traditions, each four bedroom chalet features contemporary interiors with pale wood, natural slate and opulent fabrics. To the ground floor is a convivial living space, dining area and kitchen, whilst the bedrooms are located above and below. Deluxe touches include a private sauna and heated ski storage area. Breakfast is served in the chalet; a private chef can be arranged to tailor a personal dinner or the lounge serves excellent modern French and Savoyard cuisine.

Hotel Information 14 chalets. 1 hr from Geneva Airport. Guide Price Prices from £1595pp in low season, £2010pp in high season based on 8 sharing with breakfast for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Relax in the spa with pool, hammam and sauna and Japanese inspired treatment rooms; take advantage of the cosseted concierge service which can arrange VIP shopping trips to exclusive Chamonix stores including Montclair, Chanel and Swarovski. Skiing in Les Houches is perfect for beginners and intermediates with chauffeur service to the lifts; the more challenging Chamonix slopes are just ten minutes’ away.

Chalet Living Space

Lodge Reception

L’Alpaga Lodges Megève Hotel Information 6 chalets and 4 apartments. 1 hr from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1255pp in low season, £1505pp in high season based on 4 sharing with breakfast for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Exterior

Nestled in a private estate just outside the centre of smart Megève, the hamlet comprises six luxury refuges, offering a ski stay as relaxed as it is elegant. Perfect for families, the chalets are spread over three spacious floors and sleep up to twelve guests, while the stylish apartments accommodate couples and small groups. Both styles offer traditional comfort with alluring use of honey coloured woods, stone floors and sumptuous fabrics. Peaceful living rooms have inviting sofas and a convivial fireplace to gather around; bedrooms boast oversized beds. Relax on the large terraces where there is plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the spectacular views of Mont Blanc and the Val d’ Arly For relaxation, the intimate spa has a pool and hamman. A private shuttle service operates to the slopes of Megève where, aside from skiing and snowshoeing, dog-sledding can be arranged.

Lobby

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France

Montgenèvre Geneva

Lying just a few hundred metres from the Italian border, Montgenèvre has the advantage of being linked to the massive Milky Way ski zone, where hundreds of kilometres of exciting pistes await skiers of all levels. Good skiing for beginners and intermediates is complemented by ample off piste terrain for experts in search of adrenaline thrills. Snow conditions permitting, it is possible to use the lift system to reach Sestrière and Sauze d’Oulx. After the exhilaration of the slopes, explore the town’s charming old centre with its relaxed mix of French and Italian influences.

Tignes Val d’ Isère Courchevel Les Menuires

TURIN

Montgenèvre

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: Montgenèvre benefits from excellent snow coverage due to its location and altitude. Snow guns cover a substantial area as well as the majority of the lower slopes.

Altitude of resort: Highest skiing point: Total pistes length: Number of lifts: Green runs: Blue runs: Red runs: Black runs:

Après-ski: Relaxed après-ski with a selection of bars and restaurants. Experiences: Skating, snowmobiling, tobogganing, sleigh rides Flight time: London to Turin approx 1 hour 45 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 1 hour 15 minutes from Turin Airport.

1850m 2630m 100km 30 13% 34% 36% 17% Superior Room

Lounge Area

Hotel Le Chalet Blanc Montgenèvre Hotel Information 32 rooms and suites. 1 hr 15 mins from Turin Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £930pp in low season, £1445pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Special Offers – Early Booking Offer – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Exceptionally well placed and exuding sophistication, this member of The Small Luxury Hotels of the World is set at the foot of the slopes in snow-sure Montgenèvre. It is the resort’s first luxury hotel and offers doorstep ski access, close to the nursery slopes and ski school. Blending Alpine architecture with a warm, modern edge, each room and suite with balcony is furnished in contemporary style with every amenity; Family Suites offer extra space. Spectacular mountain views abound from the restaurant La Table Blanche which offers a fine dining experience incorporating local ingredients accompanied by sommelier-selected fine wines. Close to the Italian border, Montgenèvre offers excellent skiing linked to the Milky Way; or try snow shoeing, cross country skiing or ice skating at the alfresco rink. After exertions in the snow, relax in the hotel’s spa with hamman, sauna and Jacuzzi. Indulge in pampering massages and rejuvenating beauty treatments.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Switzerland

St Moritz

Switzerland

Zürich

With a reputation for elegance and glamour, St Moritz is Switzerland’s definitive winter resort. Nestling at a snow-sure 1770 metres on the western edge of Lake St. Moritz, the town is famed for its wonderful mountain panoramas and offers a wide spectrum of exclusive hotels, designer boutiques and gourmet dining opportunities. Twenty of its restaurants are listed in the prestigious Gault Millau guides, with venues ranging from historic dining rooms to spectacular summit eateries. Dorf, built on the hillside, boasts a concentration of high fashion shops and hotels, while Bad, which spreads up the valley from the lake, is both charming and tranquil.

Klosters Davos

St Moritz

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: High altitude resort with good snow, the pistes are excellently groomed.

Altitude of resort:

1770m

Highest skiing point:

3305m

Après-ski: Excellent selection of bars and restaurants to choose from.

Total pistes length:

350km

Experiences: World famous Cresta run, White Turf horse racing, paragliding, bobsleigh descent, horse drawn sleigh rides, paragliding skating, ice climbing and ice driving.

Number of lifts:

Flight time: London to Zürich approx 1 hour 40 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes from Zürich Airport.

Hotel Exterior

Blue runs:

20%

Red runs:

70%

Black runs:

10%

Zaren Suite

Carlton Hotel St Moritz Hotel Information 60 junior suites and suites 2 hrs 30 mins from Zürich Airport. Official rating: 5 Star. Guide Price Prices from £2955pp in low season, £4225pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Clever renovations to this 1913-built landmark have seen the preservation of parts of the building’s historical past, including the grand staircase and stuccoed ballroom ceiling. Now a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World its sixty spacious suites have been vibrantly re-designed by Carlo Rampazzi, contrasting bold modern touches with delightful antique furniture. The largest of the suites, all of which are butler serviced, offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a combined sitting room/dining room and balcony. Dining is an appropriately elegant affair with gourmet cuisine at Romanoff, whilst Tschinè is less formal, focusing on Mediterranean specialities. For recreation, the 1200 square metre spa features treatment rooms, an indoor-outdoor swimming pool and an outdoor Kneipp trail in the snow. Children will be well looked after at the Carlton Kids’ Club with its programme of activities. Conveniently, the hotel also has its own ski school and rental whilst a shuttle service chauffeurs guests to the nearby Corviglia lifts.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Switzerland

Davos & Klosters

Zürich

With its extensive slopes and glittering country trails through silent larch forests, Davos attracts intermediate and advanced skiers in equal proportion. Sharing the terrain with the neighbouring resort of Klosters it is one of Europe’s highest towns and snowsport centres, the famous long run down to into the Klosters valley making for an unforgettable experience. Klosters has retained its picture postcard Swiss charm amidst the magnificent Alpine scenery. Famed for its jet-set clientele, this is an elegantly understated resort, with Pratz the main focus for après-ski activity and upmarket hotels, while quieter Dorf offers tranquil relaxation. The lift link to Davos and network of trails in between add further pleasures to a world-class winter sports destination.

Information Snow: Good snow record with snowmaking and good piste grooming. Après-ski: Varied choice of bars, restaurants and cafes. Experiences: Tobogganing, horse sleigh rides, snowshoeing, skating. Flight time: London to Zürich approx 1 hour 40 minutes. Lobby

Transfer time: Davos: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes from Zürich Airport.

Indoor Pool

Transfer time: Klosters: Approx 1 hour and 45 minutes from Zürich Airport.

Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains ~ St Moritz Set amidst the majestic Engadine Mountains, the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is steeped in rich tradition and offers the kind of unpretentious luxury appreciated by discerning families and couples alike. Rooms and suites – most with balcony and all with elegant furnishings – blend the traditional with the contemporary to create spacious comfort zones with oversized marble bathrooms and equipped with up-to-the-minute technology. It boasts an unrivalled location, directly opposite the Corviglia cable car for rapid access to one hundred kilometres of pristine piste – and the hotel has its own ski school for extra convenience. Dining includes international cuisine at Les Saisons, gourmet Mediterranean at the Cà d’Oro and innovative Alpine tapas at the lifestyle Enoteca. For recreation relax in the outstanding Alpine Kempinski The Spa; an array of treatments and massages are available incorporating Alpine herbs. In the expansive Kempinski Kids’ Club, children are cosseted and entertained with a daily programme of indoor and outdoor activities.

Hotel Information 184 rooms and suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Zürich Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars Superior. Guide Price Prices from £2085pp in low season, £3515pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Special Offers – Free Nights, Early Booking Discount – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Klosters Davos

St Moritz

Ski Facts: Altitude of resort: Davos Klosters

1550m 1190m

Highest skiing point:

2845m

Total pistes length:

307km

Number of lifts:

Blue runs:

20%

Red runs:

44%

Black runs:

36%

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Switzerland

Sheraton Davos Hotel Waldhuus ~ Davos Experience inimitable Swiss hospitality at this welcoming hotel located at the edge of the forest, only a stone’s throw away from the centre and right next to the cross-country ski runs. There is no better family retreat from which to discover the delights of Davos. The spacious rooms and suites with their harmonious furnishings create a special atmosphere, each balcony enjoying beautiful views of Davos and the mountains. Explore your gourmet desires at the Restaurant Waldhuus, serving delicious Swiss and International dishes accompanied by fine wines. Relax and restore your energy at the wellness area with indoor pool, sauna and steam bath.

Hotel Information 94 rooms and suites. 2 hrs 30 mins from Zürich Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars Superior. Guide Price Prices from £1445pp in low season, £1855pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

Families are especially welcome with many amenities for younger guests including childcare service, a playroom and a youth common room. There is easy access to the slopes from the hotel – both the Jakobshorn and Parsenn funiculars are moments away by complimentary shuttle bus. For the more active you can find ice skating, curling and the Ice Hockey Club in the nearby area.

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Double Room

Hotel Exterior

Hotel Alpina Klosters

Hotel Information 54 rooms and apartments 1 hr 45 mins from Zürich Airport Official rating: 4 Stars Superior Guide Price Prices from £1115pp in low season, £1315pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

The classic chalet-style Alpina simply exudes charm and warm hospitality, its well-equipped rooms offering every modern comfort. Families may prefer the option of staying in one of the seventeen individually furnished apartments complete with spacious living room and kitchen. Ideally located in the centre of Klosters Platz village, just a short stroll from the main cable car, the hotel is a perfect base for exploring the extensive DavosKlosters ski area and enjoying the sophisticated après-ski. For relaxation after a day on the slopes, sip a cocktail or two on the sun terrace before feasting on gourmet meals complemented by a choice of over 300 fine wines from the impressive cellar. Under the guidance of chef Christian Kaiser the restaurant has achieved international acclaim, attracting a discerning clientele. A wellness centre boasts an indoor pool, fitness area, solarium and steam room. Unwind in the scented sauna, enjoy a reviving massage or beauty treatment.

Hotel Exterior

Spa

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Switzerland

Villars Perched on a sunny shelf looking across the Rhône Valley to the Portes du Soleil, Villars is a well-established village resort with numerous attractions for skiers and non-skiers alike. Families and beginners will love the wide, uncrowded pistes and gentle nursery slopes, while intermediates can test their skills on the delightful long cruise from Meilleret to Les Diablerets – an unspoilt village which sits beneath the imposing Diablerets Glacier. Take the mountain railway to the scenic runs at the top of Bretaye, returning to relax in one of the resort’s many pizzerias or swish bistros.

Villars GENEVA

Zermatt

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: The linked Villars – Les Diablerets ski area enjoys widespread snowmaking. Excellant snow conditions are guaranteed on the glacier, a short bus ride from Les Diablerets.

Altitude of resort:

Après-ski: Varied après-ski with a good standard of tea rooms, bars and restaurants. Experiences: Paragliding, snowshoeing and ice-skating. Flight time: London to Geneva approx 1 hour and 40 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 1 hour and 30 minutes from Geneva Airport.

Crans Montana

1300m

Highest skiing point:

2120m

Total pistes length :

225km

Number of lifts:

Blue runs :

37%

Red runs:

53%

Black runs :

10%

Restaurant Le Bar

Spa Pool

Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa Villars Hotel Information 63 rooms and suites. 1 hr 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1435pp in low season, £1835pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

This member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World is the first five star hotel in Villars. Boasting ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes and close proximity to the resort centre, it is graced by sumptuous salons and impeccable service. Modern Alpinestyle accommodation is accompanied by exceptional views to the spectacular Dents du Midi, the spacious rooms and suites boasting extra large bathrooms, balconies and up-to-the-minute technology. Dining choices range from hearty raclettes and fondues in Le Grizzly to innovative gourmet cuisine in Le Jardin des Alpes, while wine connoisseurs will appreciate the regular degustations in Le Cellier, known for its selection of the region’s best crus. Children are most welcome in every restaurant and have a dedicated corner at Le Rochegrise for informal meals. Skiing is complemented by husky dog mushing for the adventurous; or enjoy the expansive spa with its indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room and fitness centre. For children there are two playrooms; the private 15 seat cinema room will entertain all ages.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Switzerland

Crans Montana Regarded as one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets, this century-old town offers inspiring views of the Matterhorn and surrounding mountains. Its modern and well designed lift system means that queues are generally short, providing trouble-free access to the large and varied piste area with its excellent gentle nursery slopes. Slopes, which are largely south facing, are sun filled and served by an impressive array of snow cannons. Cross country skiers, too, will find the resort to their liking thanks to over 40 kilometres of beautifully groomed tracks. Restaurants are plentiful both on and off the slopes; chic boutiques abound in the centre.

Villars

Crans Montana

GENEVA

Zermatt

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: High resort with sunny south facing slopes, good snow record complimented by impressive snow making facilities.

Altitude of resort:

1500m

Highest skiing point:

3000m

Après-ski: Wide choice of restaurants and good quality bars.

Total pistes length:

140km

Experiences: Tobogganing, snowshoeing, ice climbing and tubing.

Number of lifts:

Flight time: London to Geneva approx 1 hour 30 minutes.

Blue runs:

39%

Transfer time: Approx 2 hours from Geneva Airport.

Red runs:

50%

Black runs:

11%

Love Suite Bathroom

Spa

Crans Ambassador, Luxury Sport Resort ~ Crans Montana Hotel Information 63 rooms and suites. 2 hrs from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1550pp in low season, £2585pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Special Offers – Early Booking Discount – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Commanding an enviable ski-in, ski-out location in the Valais Alps, the hotel re-opens for 2011 following a complete refurbishment. Its contemporary new design features spacious rooms and suites decorated in neutral tones with pale woods. Dramatic picture windows maximise the vistas of icy massifs and spectacular mountain peaks, amongst them Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. Dining is an equally impressive experience. Gourmet cuisine is served in the signature restaurant whilst a unique Alpine tapas concept is also available, with dishes being served under the hotel’s ‘anytime, anywhere’ policy for dining at its most unhurried and relaxed. The laidback ambience continues into the sophisticated bar with live music in the evenings. For après-ski relaxation, the spa offers specialised therapies, a Jacuzzi in the snow and lap pool. Children will appreciate the cinema and Nintendo Wii room. The boutiques and extensive slopes of Crans-Montana are easily accessed whilst a Lacroix shop offers convenient in-house ski rental.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Switzerland

Chalets & Lodges ~ Switzerland

Zermatt A magnet for winter sports connoisseurs, Zermatt nestles at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn. With its reliable snow, magnificent scenery and Alpine charm it offers some of the most attractive skiing in Europe, some of the runs linking across to the Italian resorts of Cervinia and Valtourneche. In car-free Zermatt village, electric buggies hum around streets lined with fabulous designer boutiques, chic restaurants and buzzing après-ski bars. Cruise the easy-going pistes of the Gornegrat or try the challenges of the Sunnegga – this is the height of fashionable skiing, replete with excellent mountain restaurants serving superb food.

Villars

Crans Montana

GENEVA

Zermatt

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: With some of the highest slopes in Europe, Zermatt has a good snow record, complemented by plenty of snow making right down to resort level.

Altitude of resort:

1620m

Highest skiing point:

3820m

Après-ski: Wide variety of bars and restaurants offering a good mix of informal and sophisticated fun.

Total pistes length:

200km

Experiences: Heli-skiing, snowshoeing, horse drawn sleigh rides, skating & curling, cross country skiing, paragliding and helicopter flights.

Blue runs:

16%

Red runs:

60%

Black runs:

24%

Flight time: London to Geneva 1 hour 40 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 3 hours from Geneva Airport.

Number of lifts:

Zermatt Lodge Living Area

Heinz Julen Penthouse – Living Area

Zermatt Lodge Zermatt

The Heinz Julen Penthouse ~ Zermatt

Centrally located close to the Sunnegga Express lift station, this ultra-chic lodge proffers unmatched views towards the Matterhorn. Meticulously finished in every detail it occupies the entire top floor of a brand new chalet, comprising five double en suite bedrooms, four of which can be configured as twins. Beamed ceilings, aged wood floors and deeply comfortable furnishings grace the interior, where a suspended wood-burning fireplace warms the living room and a long kitchen table seats twelve. Relax on the full-length south-facing balcony, in the Jacuzzi or sauna, or settle into the large drawing room with wide screen television and study area complete with laptop. There’s a well-stocked bar and selection of fine wines.

Originally created as his own private home by Zermatt architect Heinz Julen, this panoramic double-level penthouse oozes designer touches. A suspended fireplace nests in the living room window; chandeliers and hand-made furniture pieces abound; light floods in through extensive glass roofing. A large living room featuring three separate seating areas is complemented by a dining section, open-plan kitchen and terraces. There are four double en suite bedrooms spread over three floors. Catered by a gourmet chef, chalet host and concierge team, the Penthouse is just a two minute walk from the top of the Omnia Hotel lifts, for which guests have a private key. Recreations include TV and DVD, a laptop, private sauna and treadmill.

Lodge Information

3 hours from Geneva Airport

Guide Price

Prices from £1605pp in low season, £2660pp in high season based on 10 sharing on a half board basis for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request.

Prices from £1715pp in low season, £2670pp in high season based on 8 sharing on a half board basis for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request.

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Switzerland

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof

Mont Cervin Palace

This Swiss landmark is the epitome of traditional elegance offering state-of-the-art facilities, its refurbished rooms – most with balconies to capture views of the Matterhorn – employ murals and wood panelling to create a warm and homely atmosphere. Begin the day with a hearty buffet breakfast, then later dine in grand style in the Fine Dining Prato Borni restaurant where French and Italian specialities top the menu. For relaxation and recreation, the Vita Borni wellness zone features a large indoor swimming pool and spa, with various massages and beauty treatments on hand. In addition to skiing, outdoor sports options include guided glacier tours, climbing lessons and sledging.

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this luxurious retreat is palatial both by name and nature. At the very heart of Zermatt, the hotel features elegant rooms and suites, some with unrestricted views across to the Matterhorn. Three restaurants offer the opportunity to explore your gourmet desires, including the Dining Room for splendid à la carte selections; the Dine Around option includes the choice of another ten restaurants within Zermatt. In the evenings a sophisticated après-ski ambience prevails in the two bars. Recreations centre around the stylish indoor-outdoor swimming pool and MCP Beauty Spa. Skiers of all levels will appreciate the proximity to the lifts.

Zermatt

Hotel Information Hotel Information 84 rooms and suites. 3 hrs from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1535pp in low season, £1835pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

Outside Pool

165 rooms and suites. 3 hrs from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Star Superior. Guide Price Prices from £2165pp in low season, £2475pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

Junior Suite Chalet

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Riffelalp Zermatt Hotel Information 70 rooms and suites. 3 hrs 30 mins from Geneva Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £2065pp in low season, £2630pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

At 2,222 metres above sea level, this is Zermatt’s most panoramic hotel, offering ineffable views of the Matterhorn. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the Riffelalp can be reached by a mountain railway gliding through fragrant stone-pine woods to the hotel entrance. Ski out from the classic Swiss chalet building which houses sumptuous rooms and suites, most with viewing balcony, and ski back to the prospect of a rejuvenating stone steam bath, followed by a massage and a swim in Europe’s highest outdoor swimming pool – heated, of course. With no fewer than three excellent restaurants, dining is a much-anticipated treat. The sophisticated Alexandre has delicious set menus and a la carte selections; Walliser-Keller offers fondues, raclettes and other tasty regional cuisine; Al Bosco specialises in the tastes of Italy. Activities in this beautiful region include guided ski excursions, ice skating, helicopter trips and glacier tours, while wine lovers can join tasting sessions in the company of one of the knowledgeable Maîtres d’Hotel.

Vita Borni Indoor Pool

Matterhorn Suite Lounge

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Italy

San Cassiano

Italy

INNSBRUCK

Well-heeled San Cassiano is a quiet and sunny village in the Alta Badia ski area, with links to the popular Sella Ronda circuit – the most recognised ski route of the Dolomites. Dominated by the imposing mass of the Lagazuoi the resort has a well-organised lift system to whisk skiers up to the excellent slopes from where the views are superb. A paradise for beginners and intermediates alike, it combines 3445 metres of vertical descent with 40 kilometres of scenic country trails and a snow park. Gourmets will love the choice of Michelin-starred restaurants.

San Cassiano

VENICE

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: The snow making facilities at San Cassiano are excellent.

Altitude of resort:

1530m

Après-ski: Emphasis is on a more relaxed après ski. Selection of eateries including two Michelin-starred restaurants.

Highest skiing point:

2750m

Total pistes length: (Alta Badia)

130km

Experiences: Cross country skiing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing and sledging.

Number of lifts: (Alta Badia)

Flight time: London to Innsbruck approx 1 hour 50 minutes.

Blue runs:

53%

Transfer time: Approx 1 hour 45 minutes from Innsbruck Airport.

Red runs:

40%

Black runs:

7% Chalet Loft Suite

Hotel Exterior

Hotel and Spa Rosa Alpina

Ciasa Salares

Deep in the Dolomites lies this charming Relais & Châteaux hotel in the heart of San Cassiano. Overlooked by pink-hued granite peaks, it is instantly welcoming and effortlessly stylish with rooms tastefully finished in natural woods, marble and antiques. The exhilaration of the slopes is matched by the anticipation of fine dining in the dual Michelin-starred Hubertus restaurant. For something less formal there are pizzas at the Restaurant Wine Bar & Grill and traditional fondues at the Stübe. A shuttle service chauffeurs guests directly to the nearby lifts for access to the extensive slopes of the Dolomiti Superski network. An indoor swimming pool and Daniela Steiner Spa offer relaxation.

Located in the sleepy hamlet of Armentarola, just above San Cassiano, this recently refurbished traditional style retreat stands opposite the slopes and ski lift, giving direct access to the Dolomiti Superski area. A wooden chalet style exterior beholds a welcoming interior; rooms and suites are furnished in a local style, most with balcony or terrace. During the day, La Terazza is a favourite of ski connoisseurs for alfresco lunches; in the evenings choose between the informal Wine Bar Siriola or the Michelin-starred ristorante La Siriola with its 27,000-bottle cellar. The Beauty Spa Vives boasts a large indoor swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool, relaxation zone, massages and natural treatments.

Hotel Information

51 rooms and suites. 1 hr 45 mins from Innsbruck Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars.

50 rooms and suites. 1 hr 45 mins from Innsbruck Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars.

Guide Price

Prices from £1925pp in low season, £2295pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation with breakfast. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Special Offers – Free Nights – contact reservations for details.

Prices from £1085pp in low season, £1615pp in high season including flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

San Cassiano

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Austria

Kitzbühel Almost completely car free, the atmospheric medieval centre abounds with cobbled streets, cafes and exclusive shops. This is the home of the fearsome Hahnenkamm downhill race held each January and acknowledged as the toughest on the World Cup circuit. The resort is ideally suited to intermediates; however there are plenty of opportunities to explore offpiste for more experienced skiers. There are many excellent mountain restaurants and the village boasts a ritzy casino, or for something a little different take a late night Hahnenkamm gondola up to the Hochkitzbühel restaurant to dine by candlelight while watching the stars.

SALZBURG

Kitzbühel

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: Kitzbühel is a low altitude resort with impressive snow making facilities.

Altitude of resort:

Après-ski: The nightlife is one of Kitzbühel’s key selling points; the old town hosts a wide variety of bars, restaurants and nightclubs.

Total pistes length:

Experiences: Skating, cross country skiing, paragliding, curling, tobogganing. Flight time: London to Salzburg approx 2 hours. Transfer time: Approx 1 hour 30 minutes from Salzburg Airport.

Highest skiing point: Number of lifts:

760m 2000m 170km 55

Blue runs:

40%

Red runs:

46%

Black runs:

14%

Swimming Pool

Rooftop Swimming Pool

Hotel Weisses Rössl

Schwarzer Adler

Long renowned as a hideaway for artists and politicians, this exclusive hotel dates back to the fifteenth century. Renovated and enlarged over recent years, it enjoys a central location close to the lifts and ski schools. Within the attractive traditional cream exterior lie sixty eight rooms and suites distinctly decorated with decadent use of silk, satin and marble. Savour gourmet international cuisine at Velvet and enjoy wine tastings within the original fifteenth century cellar. For après-ski relaxation, recline by one of the lobby’s roaring log fires. Recreational facilities encompass indoor swimming pool, sauna and spa specialising in Oriental inspired treatments or exclusively for Harisch Suite guests, a private movie showing in the eleven seat cinema.

Located in Kitzbühel’s cobbled medieval centre, the Schwarzer Adler is Austrian hospitality epitomised. Within its traditional Tyrolean exterior lies a contemporary boutique hotel with elegantly furnished rooms and suites. Junior Suites are traditional in style encompassing a rich palette of colours, some boasting private saunas; studios have freestanding bathtubs from which unforgettable mountain vistas can be absorbed. Gourmet dining abounds; Neuwirt serves award-winning cuisine combining imaginative flavours from the mountain and the sea, whilst the Hotel restaurant offers traditional dining in its three wood-panelled parlours. To unwind after the day’s exertions, the Black Spa is one of the most celebrated in the Alps offering beauty treatments, massages and indoor pool.

Hotel Information

68 rooms and suites. 1 hr 30 mins from Salzburg Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars.

88 rooms and suites. 1 hr 30 mins from Salzburg Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars Superior.

Guide Price

Prices from £1075pp in low season, £1780pp in high season on a half board basis for 7 nights including economy flights. Transfers available on request.

Prices from £1140pp in low season, £1495pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Kitzbühel

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Austria

Lech And Zürs Luxury knows no bounds in ultra-fashionable Lech, from heated chair lifts to plush hotels and gourmet restaurants. Reliable snow combines with traditional village charm to create a perfect winter ambience – even the number of lift passes is limited to ensure fewer queues and quieter slopes. The superbly-groomed pistes favour intermediates; for experts the range of off-piste challenges is virtually limitless.

INNSBRUCK Lech Zürs

St Anton

Zürs is a quiet, ultra-chic enclave in Austria’s magnificent Voralberg, regarded as one the most exclusive resorts in the Alps. Known for its excellent snow record it offers over 270 kilometres of fine skiing. The resort also boasts some of the best restaurants and deluxe hotels in Austria.

Information Snow: Both Lech and Zürs enjoy excellent snow as well as having comprehensive snow making facilities. Après-ski: Chic fashionable après-ski with a wide selection of bars and restaurants. Experiences: Sleigh rides, heli-skiing, snowshoeing, skating, paragliding. Flight time: London to Innsbruck approx 1 hour 50 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 1 hour 30 minutes from Innsbruck Airport.

Ski Facts: Zürs/Lech Altitude of resort: Zurs Lech

1720m 1450m

Highest skiing point:

2650m

Total pistes length: (Arlberg)

276km

Number of lifts: (Arlberg)

Blue runs:

39%

Red runs:

50%

Black runs:

11%

View Towards Hotel

Rote Bar

Thurnher’s Alpenhof

Hotel Kristiania

Described as ‘like stepping into a winter fairytale’, there is certainly something magical about the Thurnhers Alpenhof ski-in, ski-out mountainside setting in Zürs am Arlberg. One of the most exclusive addresses in the Alps and a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World. Rooms are exceptionally spacious, views are ineffable and the cuisine is outstanding. Served in the wood-panelled restaurant meals range from regional to international. Recreational amenities encompass Finnish sauna, steam bath, massages and indoor heated swimming pool, small cinema and a special children’s entertainment programme. The unique services of an in-house ski instructor are complimentary: organising sleigh rides, torch-lit hikes and guided ski excursions.

Austrian skiing tradition is enshrined in this renowned hotel, established by Olympic ski medallist Othmar Schneider. Excellent food, good service and abundant artworks are complemented by a convenient location within five minutes of the slopes and cross-country ski track. Attractive rooms and suites, furnished with paintings, objets d’art and antiques, give views over Lech or the mountains. In the fine main restaurant, impeccable Austrian cuisine is matched by an extensive wine list. A sun terrace provides relaxation whilst in-room spa services offer soothing massages and treatments after a day on the slopes. For the ultimate in cosseted service, a bath butler will draw an aromatherapy bath.

Zürs

Lech

Hotel Information Hotel Information 38 rooms and suites. 1 hr 30 mins from Innsbruck Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars Superior. Guide Price Prices from £1965pp in low season, £2670pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request.

29 rooms and suites. 1 hr 30 mins from Innsbruck Airport. Official rating: 4 Stars Superior. Guide Price Prices from £1710pp in low season, £2110pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Austria

St Anton Since the first skiers ventured on the slopes of St Anton, it has developed into a major international ski resort – its extensive slopes and varied terrain making it a huge draw for competent skiers. Consistently high snowfall and treeless powder bowls make it an off-piste skiers dream, with narrow couloirs and tight chutes to add to the challenge. Take the gondola to Valluga Peak, which stands at over 2,800 metres. Village life centres around the pedestrianised main street, where an exceptional array of après-ski bars are complemented by nightclubs and restaurants galore.

INNSBRUCK Lech Zürs

St Anton

Information

Ski Facts

Snow: St Anton enjoys a good snow record which is complemented by excellent snow making facilities.

Altitude of Village:

1305m

Highest skiing point:

2650m

Après-ski: Exceptional après-ski – with a wide selection of bars and restaurants. Starts in the afternoon and continues into the early hours.

Total pistes length: (Arlberg)

276km

Experiences: Sleigh rides, paragliding, skating, tobogganing, and curling. Flight time: London to Innsbruck approx 1 hour 50 minutes. Transfer time: Approx 1 hour 30 minutes from Innsbruck Airport.

Number of lifts: (Arlberg)

Blue runs:

39%

Red runs:

50%

Black runs:

Suite

11%

Grand Suite Maisonette

Raffl’s St Antoner Hof St Anton Hotel Information 37 rooms and suites. 1hr 30 mins from Innsbruck Airport. Official rating: 5 Stars. Guide Price Prices from £1580 pp in low season, £2590pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a half board basis. Single supplement and transfers available on request. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

There’s a particular ‘joie de vivre’ about this family-run hotel in the heart of St Anton, with nearby access to the expansive Arlberg ski region. It begins with the distinctive exterior and continues into the swish interior spaces adorned with a contrasting but complementary blend of antiques, objets d’art and contemporary pieces. No two rooms or suites are alike, although each is tastefully furnished in neutral tones, equipped with the latest technology including DVD players and most have balcony. Sumptuous dinners are served in the traditionally styled Raffl Stube gourmet restaurant with its extensive wine selection; the exuberant mood reappears with live music When tranquillity beckons, you need look no further than the sauna, indoor swimming pool or the Turkish steam bath where muscle-relaxing après-ski massages are a speciality. A weekly activity programme includes snow shoe and torch-lit hikes through the snow-covered forests.

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Canada & USA

Whistler Wide empty slopes, long runs and snow clad forests; every day in Whistler offers a new adventure. Start with a mountain-sized breakfast at the zenith of Whistler Mountain before claiming first tracks on a sea of untouched powder: 8000 acres of prime mountain terrain just draped in a fresh new carpet of magical snow, a skier or boarder’s dream. A true winter enthusiast need not be confined solely to the pistes. Experience the thrill of driving a team of dogs over snow covered fields, the romance of a horse-drawn sleigh ride or as night falls, embark on an exhilarating snowmobile drive through forests of cedar and along frozen lakes. Extend your stay with a Polar Bear Adventure in Manitoba. See page 10.

Whistler

VANCOUVER

Ski Facts – Whistler & Blackcomb

Information

Altitude of resort:

265m

Snow: North America’s largest ski area has excellent snow conditions, especially on the high peaks

Highest skiing point:

875m

Total pistes:

Après-ski: Whistler Village offers plenty of restaurants, nightclubs and bars

Number of lifts:

Experiences: Heli-skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, cat skiing.

Beginner runs :

20%

Flight time: London to Vancouver: Approx 10 hours.

Intermediate runs:

55%

Transfer time: Approx 2 hours 30 minutes from Vancouver International Airport.

Expert runs:

25%

Aspen & Vail Aspen, American glitterati’s ski town of choice, is a glamorous hub, spruced to perfection, where a clear morning run through snow dusted trees may be followed by an afternoon concert. This ex-silver mining town offers some of America’s best après-ski, brimming as it is with jazz clubs, hip bars and nightclubs. Swap Aspen’s cosmopolitan vibe for the stylish village atmosphere of Vail and the unrivalled experience of gliding through the champagne powder of the resort’s superlative theatrical bowls. As well as the vast terrain of Vail, explore the slopes of Beaver Creek and Breckenridge, both prime destinations for off-piste enthusiasts. Extend your stay with a Winter Tour in Yellowstone. See page 11.

Vail Breckenridge

DENVER

Snowmass Aspen

Ski Facts: Aspen Area (including Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass)

Altitude of resorts:

2422m

Highest skiing point:

3813m

Total pistes: Number of lifts:

336 61

Beginner runs:

15%

Intermediate runs:

62%

Expert runs:

23%

Information Snow: Aspen has uncrowded slopes and excellent snow records, with perfectly groomed pistes. Vail offers large areas of ungroomed, wooded slopes on the Back Bowls, whilst the north face of the mountain is well groomed.

Ski Facts: Vail

Après-ski: Aspen offers a range of dining from casual diner-style to gourmet elegance. Vail offers world-class dining, shopping, nightlife and spas.

Highest Skiing Point:

Experiences: Dog sledding, snowshoe tours, snowmobiling, hot-air ballooning. Flight time: London to Denver: Approx 10 hours. Denver to Aspen or Eagle Airports: Approx 45 minutes. Transfer time: Aspen: 10 minutes from Aspen Airport, 1 hour 30 minutes from Eagle Airport. Vail: 2 hours from Denver Airport, 45 minutes from Eagle Airport.

Altitude of Village: Total Pistes: Number of Lifts:

675m 3527m 192 32

Beginner Runs:

18%

Intermediate Runs:

29%

Expert Runs:

53%

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Canada

The Westin Resort & Spa Whistler

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler ~ Whistler

Located slope-side on Whistler Mountain, this all-suite resort is just steps away from both Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas and Whistler Village. The convenient location is matched by exceptional service, including a ski valet and well-appointed accommodations. Each of the spacious suites features a kitchen, relaxing soaker tub, inviting fireplace, Westin’s trademark ‘Heavenly Bed’ and stunning mountain views. Dine in style at the Aubergine Grille and afterwards unwind in the intimate Firerock Lounge. The Avello Spa & Health Club offers a range of soothing treatments, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a eucalyptus steam room, a pool and gym equipment. Visit in summer and a host of outdoor activities, from golf to hiking, are on the doorstep.

Nestled in upper Whistler Village, at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, Whistler’s flagship hotel offers an unforgettable winter experience. Guests can take advantage of the ski-in/ ski-out top-ranked terrain and a host of outdoor activities. Guest rooms are tastefully appointed and offer spectacular views, Fairmont Gold Floors featuring the added benefits of a dedicated concierge and daily food presentations. Relax in the Health Club including an indoor/outdoor pool, sauna and steam rooms or indulge in spa treatments at Vida Wellness Spa. Experience fine dining in The Wine Room, followed by cocktails and entertainment in the Mallard Lounge or gather to swap stories around the fire pits. Restaurants, shops and nightclubs are minutes away in Whistler Village.

Hotel Information

419 suites. 2 hrs from Vancouver International Airport.

550 rooms and suites. 2 hrs from Vancouver International Airport.

Guide Price

Prices from £1300pp in low season, £2185pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a room only basis. Single supplement available on request.

Prices from £1440pp in low season, £2200pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a room only basis. Single supplement available on request.

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Hotel Exterior

Superior Room

Four Seasons Resort Whistler Hotel Information 273 rooms, suites & townhouses. 2 hrs from Vancouver International Airport Guide Price Prices from £1695pp in low season, £1945pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a room only basis. Single supplement available on request. Special Offers – Early Booking Offer, Family Offer – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Hotel Exterior

Canada’s only AAA Five Diamond resort, few mountain residences can boast such a combination of scenic grandeur, welcoming luxury and family-friendly touches. Guests will appreciate easy access to the slopes of Whistler Blackcomb, the exclusive Ski Elite instruction programme along with the services of a dedicated ski concierge. Spacious rooms feature cosy wood interiors and spacious bathrooms with deep soaking tubs, as well as gas-burning fireplaces and superb views. Exertions on the slopes are rewarded by sumptuous dining and deep relaxation. Fifty Two 80 offers all-day bistro dining to the accompaniment of a cosy fireplace and Alpine views; Sidecut is a new modern steakhouse. The spa, heated outdoor pool and whirlpools can be enjoyed year-round. A wonderful base for families, younger guests are welcomed with a plethora of amenities, including DVDs and bedtime milk and cookies. Parents are invited to sample British Columbia’s finest wines served with canapés at a daily Manager’s wine reception.

Lobby

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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USA

The Arrabelle At Vail Square ~ Vail

St Regis Resort

The epitome of elegance with a distinct European dash, the Arrabelle stands in exclusive Vail Square in Lionshead Village. Lavish guest rooms and ultra-spacious suites provide every conceivable comfort, with fireplace, TV and DVD player, whilst the lavish bathrooms feature a soaking tub. A ski valet will assist with boots and skis – the Eagle Bahn Gondola is located right next door for ultimate convenience. Enjoy hearty, French-brasserie food in the Centre V restaurant where guests can sip Champagne and savour freshly prepared shellfish platters. Indulge body and mind in the state-of-the-art RockResorts Spa with whirlpools, steam rooms, Vichy showers, saunas and fitness centre.

At the foot of Aspen Mountain, within walking distance of shops and restaurants, the St Regis Resort, Aspen is one of the highest rated ski resorts in the world. A complete renovation programme will take place throughout the spring and summer months, and the resort will re-open its doors in November 2011. The redesign promises a spectacular transformation of guest accommodation as well as remodelled public areas, renovated pool area and new fitness centre equipment. In addition, the fine dining restaurant and lounge will allow for alfresco dining, a brand new French Patisserie will offer pre-ski delights, whilst guests will continue to be pampered in the Remède Spa.

Hotel Information

62 rooms and suites. 2 hrs from Denver Airport, 30 mins from Eagle Airport.

179 rooms and suites. 10 mins from Aspen Airport, 1 hr 30 mins from Eagle Airport

Guide Price

Prices from £1550pp in low season, £2290pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. Single supplement available on request. Special Offers – Early Booking Offer – contact reservations for details.

Prices from £1565pp in low season, £2785pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a room only basis. Single supplement available on request. Special Offers – Early Booking Offer, Free Nights, Added Value – contact reservations for details.

Aspen

Exterior & Pool

Fireside Lounge

Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Four Seasons Resort Vail Hotel Information 121 rooms and suites. 2 hrs from Denver Airport, 30 mins from Eagle Airport Guide Price Prices from £1565pp in low season, £2785pp in high season including economy flights and 7 nights accommodation on a room only basis. Single supplement available on request. Special Offers – Early Booking Offer – contact reservations for details. Please refer to page 62 for further information.

Epitomising the understated chic of Vail, the resort stands at the gateway to the village, just a short stroll from exclusive shops, restaurants and the Vista Bahn chair lift with its dedicated Four Seasons Ski Concierge. Hickory and limestone distinguish the contemporary light-filled interiors, most rooms having mountain and pool views, balcony, fireplace and luxury bathroom with freestanding bathtub. Classic hearty mountain cuisine is served in the Flame restaurant, warmed by numerous welcoming fires and offering expansive views from its heated outdoor terraces. At the year-round outdoor pool, guests are greeted with warm robes and seasonal drinks on the heated deck in winter, whilst an inviting spa redolent with oils of pine and juniper offers whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and treatment rooms. Vail’s vast skiable terrain offers challenges for all abilities, and other winter adventures include dog sledding with Siberian huskies through the forest and snow shoeing the quiet backcountry trails. Young guests will love the Kids for All Seasons programme, offering activities indoors and out. Exterior

Exterior

Visit your specialist Travel Agent or call 0161 491 7670 for further information

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Essential Information

Essential Information Space in our brochures is limited so additional information is available online at www.carrier.co.uk and our staff are always happy to advise you personally. To help you in choosing a holiday which is tailor made by us to your requirements, please call our Sales team, or visit your travel agent or our website for further information about services and prices. We will be happy to provide you with a quote. BROCHURE ACCURACY We rigorously check the information given in our brochure about accommodation, resorts, itineraries etc., to ensure it is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of going to press. However, as brochures are prepared well in advance, advertised descriptions and facilities may change before or after you book. Please check the up to date position at the time of booking. FROM PRICES Carrier offers you the flexibility to create your own holiday from the range of accommodation and services available. Because of the wide choice it is not possible to list every price on every date, so as an indication, we categorise our hotels and other accommodation in low and high price bands. Low and high season dates will vary from hotel to hotel. In addition higher prices (not shown) will apply in peak season (traditionally Christmas, New Year and February half term). A ‘from’ price is indicative of the lowest price available for the hotel or itinerary featured but this may vary depending on a number of factors such as your date of travel and choice of accommodation. Prices are based on two people sharing a room, unless otherwise stated. FLYING TIMES The times given in this brochure are approximate and based on outbound flights. They may vary depending on flight schedules, type of aircraft, weather conditions etc., and are indicative of the hours spent actually flying (excluding time on the ground during stops en route or when changing aircraft). FLIGHT SEAT REQUESTS AND AIRCRAFT We strongly recommend that you check in early if you have particular seat requests. Many airlines allow you to do this on-line, 24 hrs prior to departure. Carrier has no control over the allocation of seats by the airline and even if a request has been made with the airline to pre-book seats, no guarantee can be made that they will still be available on departure. The provision of particular seats does not constitute a term of your contract with us. Please note airlines operate both older and more modern aircraft within their fleet. We regret we cannot guarantee the type of aircraft you will travel on as this may be subject to change. SPECIAL REQUESTS Where special requests eg. diet, room location, twin or double bedded room, a particular facility at a hotel, flight seat requests and/or particular meals etc. are an important factor in the choice of holiday, you must advise us when the booking is made. We are happy to pass your request on to the hotel or airline but cannot guarantee that it will be accommodated. We will also pass on any dietary requests to airlines but we recommend that you check directly with the airline once your tickets have been issued. The provision of any special request does not constitute a term of your contract with us.

PASSENGERS WITH REDUCED MOBILITY, OTHER DISABILITIES AND MEDICAL CONDITIONS Carrier complies fully with Regulation (EC) No 1107/2006 concerning the rights of disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility when travelling by air, and can offer assistance to disabled persons or persons with reduced mobility, provided that we are given full information of specific requirements at time of booking. If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or any special requirements as a result of any medical condition or disability (including any which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability occurs. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. SAFETY & SECURITY ABROAD We take the safety and security of our clients extremely seriously. Sadly crimes against both people and their property are a fact of life the world over, and when in a foreign country it is very important to be extra vigilant and avoid drawing attention to yourself by wearing expensive jewellery, carrying expensive camera equipment etc. Travellers have the same responsibility for their personal safety and that of their possessions, as they do at home. Carrier operates holidays to many parts of the world. We take appropriate steps to ensure that all hotels comply with the local regulations applicable in their country for health and safety. However, health and safety standards overseas are not the same as they are in the UK and may sometimes be lower. We therefore urge that you undertake reasonable precautions to protect your family and yourself whilst on holiday. To make the most of your trip abroad, check out the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website at www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo before you book and in good time before departure. Foreign Office advice is also displayed on BBC2 (Ceefax) page 470 onwards or contact the Foreign Office Travel Advice Unit on 0845 850 2829. HEALTH & VACCINATIONS Health facilities, hygiene and disease risk vary worldwide. You should take health advice about your specific needs as early as possible and ensure that vaccinations or preventative measures are taken early enough (which may be a month or more prior to departure) to be fully effective by the date of travel. Sources of information include the Department of Health free leaflet ‘Health advice for travellers’ (available on request Tel. 0800 555 777), the National Travel Health Network www.nathnac.org, your General Practitioner or a specialist vaccination clinic. PASSPORTS & VISAS British citizens require a full 10 year British passport valid for 6 months after return to the UK. Some destinations also require visas and we can

advise you of these at time of booking. We can only advise of the requirements for British citizens holding a full British passport. If you are not a British citizen with a British passport, requirements should be checked with the relevant embassy. USA ENTRY REQUIREMENTS The US Government has strict entry regulations which must be adhered to. Please note if you or your dependants do not have the appropriate personal documentation the US Customs will not allow entry. Please see some guidelines below and for full advice visit the US Embassy website on london.usembassy.gov or phone 0906 8200 290. •

• •

All passports must be valid, machine readable with a digital photograph or an e-passport with an electronic chip. You can check the validity of your passport on the useful link on the US Embassy website. A passport indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, British Dependant Territories Citizen, British Overseas Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) or British Protected Person does not qualify for travel without a visa or someone who has indefinite leave to remain in the UK. NB: Some passports issued by British Consular posts abroad may not be machine readable – please check with the UK Passport Service on 0870 521 0410 or www.passport.gov.uk for further information. Also applicable to passengers in transit in the US. The US Govt requires advance passenger information detailing your country of residence, as well as postal address of the first hotel where you will be staying in the US, which can be found on the contacts page of your final itinerary. This information will be collected by the airline upon check-in and will also be required on the Visa Waiver form on the aircraft. Finger scanning and Facial recognition is a standard security process for all travellers to the US on arrival. British Citizens holding a UK passport can enter under visa waiver program and do not require a visa prior to travel providing: ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Duration of stay is no more than 90 days and the traveller has a valid onward or return ticket. Travel is for business, tourism or transit only. Traveller is not a journalist or seeking employment. Traveller has never been arrested, refused entry or deported from the US or previously violated the terms of admission under the visa waiver program.

ESTA — ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORISATION It is compulsory for all British Citizen passport holders to obtain an electronic travel authorisation prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the US under the visa waiver program and also includes passengers in transit to/from the US. Applications can be submitted anytime however we recommend no later than 72 hours prior to travel. For further information and to apply online visit https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov This does NOT however include British Subjects, British Dependent Territories Citizens, British Overseas Territories Citizens, British Overseas Citizens, British National (Overseas) and British Protected Persons passport holders who must have full visas if they want to travel to the US and should contact the US embassy for more information.

CANADIAN ENTRY REQUIREMENTS If you have committed or been convicted of a criminal offence including driving whilst impaired, you may be prohibited from entering Canada. For further information please contact the Canadian High Commission on 020 7258 6600. PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Virtually all countries have public holidays, religious or otherwise. The festivities may temporarily disrupt your holiday and some religious holidays may result in a reduction of facilities and entertainment. Others are somewhat chaotic but great fun to be a part of. Please take this into consideration when selecting your departure date. HOLIDAY SEASONS Most destinations featured in this brochure do have quieter ‘off peak’ periods when you can take advantage of un-crowded resorts and more personal attention from hotel staff at excellent prices. At this time it may be necessary for hotels to scale down the size of some of their facilities, such as restaurants, to match demand. BUILDING AND DEVELOPMENT WORK Many hotels and resorts are continuing to develop, often with little advance warning. Whilst we have no control over such work, it is important to us that you are aware of any significant building/ refurbishment work that may be going on during your stay. General refurbishment at hotels is necessary to maintain standards but if we are informed of such work and where this can reasonably be expected to have an effect on your holiday, we will endeavour to notify you of it as soon as possible, however near to your departure this may be. LOCAL CONDITIONS Tour and excursion itineraries may change as a result of local conditions. Circumstances such as these, or weather conditions, time of year etc., may cause some of the amenities we have described to be unavailable or different from those advertised in our brochure. Please bear in mind that snow conditions are variable, so it is possible that due to adverse weather conditions some lifts and pistes may be not be open. When we are told of any significant or long term changes we will always endeavour to advise you prior to your departure. WEATHER World weather is becoming more erratic and unpredictable and we cannot be held responsible for disruption to your holiday due to bad or unusual weather conditions. Our Sales team will endeavour to advise you on weather trends.

AcknowledgementS: We would like to extend our thanks to the following: Front Cover: Villars & Gryon Tourisme, Sport’s House, Ecole Suisse de Ski et Snowboard and Stephane Ruchet. Inside Cover Spread: Crans Montana Tourism and Alex Sports. Icehotel: Leif Milling.

Booking Conditions The holidays featured are operated by Carrier Ltd (“Carrier”, “we”, “us” and “our”). We are a member of ABTA, membership number V0391. We also hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (No 2968). The following conditions, together with the information set out in the relevant brochure descriptions and the Essential Holiday Information form the basis of your contract with us. In these booking conditions, “you” and “your” means all persons named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date) or any of them, as the context requires and “lead name” means the person who makes the booking. All contracts with us are made subject to these booking conditions. We reserve the right in our absolute discretion to refuse to accept any booking without necessarily specifying a reason. MAKING A BOOKING When you or your travel agent wish to confirm a holiday booking you must pay a deposit of either £250 per person or 10% of the total holiday cost, whichever is the greater, or any higher deposit which applies to your holiday. The deposit paid will only be refundable as set out in these booking conditions. If you book 70 days or less prior to departure, full payment is due at the time of booking. When you make a booking you are confirming that you understand and have accepted on behalf of all members of your party our Booking Conditions and our Essential Holiday Information. We accept various methods of payment, however please note that if you choose to pay by credit card, there will be a charge levied. You can of course choose an alternative method of payment such as a cheque or debit card. FINANCIAL PROTECTION AND ABTA We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2968). When you buy an ATOL protected air inclusive holiday or flight* from us you will receive a confirmation invoice from us (or via our authorised agent) confirming your arrangements and your protection under our ATOL. In the unlikely event of our insolvency the CAA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. Please note: Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme. * The air inclusive holidays and flights we arrange are ATOL protected providing either the person who pays for the booking is present in the UK when the booking is made or the first leg of any flight or flights we arrange for you commences in the UK. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. We are a member of ABTA (ABTA number V0391). If you book a combination of services (for example, accommodation and car hire) for your holiday with us at the same time as part of the same booking which does not include flights, ABTA will financially protect your holiday in the same way except that, if already abroad, you will be returned to the point where your contracted arrangements with us commenced. Please go to www.abta.com for a copy of the guide to ABTA’s scheme of Financial Protection. ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them when things do not go according to plan. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint contact ABTA at 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ or see www.abta.com PRICES Before your booking is confirmed and a contract comes into existence we reserve the right to increase or decrease brochure prices (see Our Price Guarantee) or to change any of the information contained in this brochure. Changes will be made known to you before you book. The prices we advertise are based on specially negotiated airfares to

be booked in a specific airline booking class. At the time of booking, if there is a lack of availability in the specified class on any particular flight, we will endeavour to secure seats for you in an alternative class and you will be told the amount of the applicable flight supplement / higher deposit before you book. A booking is not accepted until we issue an invoice. The date shown on the invoice, which will be sent to you or your travel agent is the date of booking. It is important to check the details on the invoice as soon as you receive it. In the event of any discrepancy please contact us or your travel agent immediately. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracies (for which we are responsible) in any document within 10 days of our sending it out (5 days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. OUT OF DATE-RANGE FLIGHTS Our brochures are prepared well in advance and scheduled airlines generally do not load seats in their system until approximately 10 months before the departure. If this is the case we will inform you at the time of booking and calculate the price in anticipation that seats will be available in the specific airline booking class to which our specially negotiated airfares apply. We will issue an invoice recording the arrangements reserved for you and will take a deposit. A contract between us will then come into existence on the basis that the price payable will be that applicable when the airline releases the seats and the timings and other flight details will be those confirmed at that time which may be different to those advised at the time of booking. When the airline seats become available to book we will tell you the price and other flight details and give you 7 days to tell us whether you wish to continue with the booking on the basis of the confirmed price and other details or cancel and receive a full refund. If you wish to continue with the booking, we will issue a revised invoice. In the event that flight seats do not become available, you will receive a full refund of your deposit. We will have no other liability and will not be responsible for refunding the cost of any services booked in conjunction with the flights. ’NO FRILLS’ AIRLINES We provide a choice of scheduled and ‘no frills’ carriers to take advantage of the flexibility and pricing available. You should note that ‘no frills’ flights do not include in flight meals. The deposit at the time of booking is £250 per person or 10% of the total holiday cost, whichever is the greater, plus the cost of the flight. However, it may occasionally be necessary to charge a higher deposit due to a fluctuation in airfares, details of which would be advised to you at the time of booking. Any change of your flight to a different destination or routing, will be subject to availability and will incur the loss of the original deposit collected. Date and name changes are permitted, subject to availability and the relevant charges imposed as per the individual airlines own conditions (details available on request). Any changes made may also result in additional charges due to an increase in airfare or charges imposed. PAYING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY After your booking is taken and a deposit received, a confirmation invoice will be sent to you detailing the total cost due. Full payment must be received not less than 70 days before departure. If you do not pay in full 70 days before departure, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you in which case the amount you have paid at the time of booking will be forfeited by way of cancellation charges. If you make a holiday booking within 70 days of your departure date then you must pay the full cost of the holiday at the booking stage. Any money paid by you to one of our authorised travel agents for your holiday arrangements with us is held by the agent on our behalf. OUR PRICE GUARANTEE All prices quoted in this brochure are calculated on the basis of known costs on 18 April 2011 and exchange rates as

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Booking Information published in the Financial Times of 19 April 2011. Brochure prices can go up or down. Before you make a booking we will give you the up to date price of your chosen holiday, including the cost of any peak season supplements, fuel surcharges, upgrades or additional facilities which you have requested. Once you have accepted this price and we have issued a confirmation invoice, that price is fully guaranteed and will not be subject to any surcharges.

CANCELLING YOUR HOLIDAY If you wish to cancel the holiday the lead name must notify us of the decision as soon as possible. Any notification by telephone must also be confirmed in writing or by e-mail within 24-hours by the lead name. Cancellation will take effect from the day we are notified provided that written confirmation is received by us within 24-hours of the original notification.

PRICING ERRORS Whilst we endeavour to ensure that the most up to date and correct prices are shown on our website and in our brochures, there may on occasion be an incorrect price shown, due to an unfortunate error. When we become aware of any such error, we will endeavour to notify you at the time of booking (if we are then aware of the mistake) or within 7 days of the time of booking, or as soon as reasonably possible. We must reserve the right to cancel the booking if you do not wish to accept the price which is actually applicable to the holiday in which case, you will be given the choice to amend your booking to an alternative holiday, at the correct price.

A cancellation invoice will be sent to the lead name or your travel agent within 7 days; if you do not receive this please contact us immediately in order to prevent an increase in charges. Should you already be in receipt of your airline tickets please also return these to us along with your cancellation request. The following scale of charges will be payable depending on when the notification of cancellation is received. Insurance premiums and amendment charges are not refundable in the event of cancellation. References to the deposit include all sums paid at the time of booking.

HOLIDAY INSURANCE This is a vital part of any holiday and it is a requirement of booking that you hold adequate travel insurance with full cancellation cover. Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs. TRAVEL INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTS After booking you will receive an invoice with any important information relevant to the destination you are visiting. We strongly recommend that you check the details and read the information. Approximately 7 days before departure you will receive your flight/ e-ticket together with an itinerary. Please ensure that you check the flight timings on your tickets carefully. The correct timings, using the 24-hour clock system, may have been adjusted since we published the brochure or you received your invoice. CHANGES TO YOUR HOLIDAY If you wish to change any part of your holiday arrangements after the invoice has been issued, we will do our best to make the change, but it may not be possible. Any request for changes must be made in writing by the person who made the original booking, or his or her travel agent. If it is possible to make the change, it will be subject to an administration charge of £50 per amendment, and payment of any further costs incurred as a result of the change. If we agree that you may change your booking to a holiday of lower value, and then you cancel that holiday, we reserve the right to levy cancellation charges on the value of the original booking. Scheduled airlines normally regard name changes as a cancellation and rebooking, and any alteration may incur a 100% cancellation charge in respect of the airfare. Please note that save for the transfer of a booking (see below), or the addition of any offers made by Carrier in the brochure which were not requested at the time of booking, it may not be possible to make changes within 70 days of your scheduled departure date. TRANSFERRING BOOKINGS If any person named on a booking is prevented from travelling as a result of illness, the death of a close relative, jury service or significant reason, we will agree to that person’s booking being transferred to another person who satisfies all the conditions applicable to the package, subject to both persons accepting liability for full payment of the holiday cost and any additional costs arising from the transfer. Scheduled airlines normally regard name changes as a cancellation and rebooking, and any alteration may incur a 100% cancellation charge in respect of the airfare. An administration charge will be made of £50 per person for requests made more than 70 days before departure, and £100 per person within 70 days before departure.

Period prior to departure notice of cancellation is received by us or your travel agent Prior to 70 days: 70 – 42 days: 41 – 28 days: 27 – 10 days: Less than 10 days:

Cancellation charge per person cancelling

deposit 30% of total holiday cost 70% of total holiday cost 90% of total holiday cost 100% of total holiday cost

IF WE CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY We hope and expect to be able to provide you with all the services we have confirmed to you at the time of booking. We plan arrangements a long time in advance of your holiday using independent suppliers such as airlines, hotels etc., over whom we have no direct control. On occasions changes do have to be made, and we reserve the right to make these. Most of these changes are minor. However, occasionally, changes are significant. A significant change includes a change of accommodation to that of a lower category and/or price for the whole or a major part of your time away, a change of flight time of more than 12 hours, a change of UK departure airport (except between London airports), or a significant change of resort area. Similarly, we do our best to avoid cancelling holidays but we must reserve the right to do so. However, we promise we will only cancel your confirmed booking after you have made full payment where we are forced to do so as a result of “force majeure” as defined below or lack of minimum numbers. We will not cancel after this date for any other reason. Please note, some of our holidays require a minimum number of participants to enable us to operate them. If the minimum number of bookings required for a particular holiday has not been received, we are entitled to cancel it. We will notify you or your travel agent of cancellation for this reason no later than 70 days prior to departure.

If you have taken advantage of an airline offer as detailed on the relevant page and paid a higher deposit, the cancellation charge payable by you will be the higher of this deposit or the appropriate cancellation charge detailed above.

If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:

YOUR AIRLINE In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community list” which contains details of air carriers who are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community list is available for inspection at http:// ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/list_en.htm.

(a) (for significant changes) accepting the changed arrangements; or

We are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are not able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative the provisions of “If we change or cancel your holiday” will apply. FLIGHT CHANGES The flight timings shown in our brochure, on our website and/or detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are outside our control. They are set by airlines and are subject to various factors including air traffic control restrictions, weather conditions, potential technical problems and the ability of passengers to check in on time. Airlines occasionally may change the type of aircraft used on a particular flight without advance warning. Scheduled and charter flight timings, and days of operation are subject to change. We will advise you of any significant change as soon as we ourselves are informed by the airline. Minor timing changes will be shown on the flight tickets, which you should check carefully when received. Should the changes involve a reduction of your duration, we will offer you a refund of any applicable costs. Any change in the identity of the airline, flight timings and/or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where specified in these conditions.

(b) purchasing an alternative holiday from us. You may choose any of our other then available holidays. You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday. This will mean your paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper; or (c) cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us. If we have to make a significant change or cancel we will, where compensation is appropriate, pay you the compensation payments set out in the table below depending on the circumstances and when the significant change or cancellation is notified to you subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where (1) we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care or (2) we have to cancel because the minimum number of bookings necessary for us to operate your holiday has not been reached (see above). No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or where a change is a minor one. A change of flight time of less than 12 hours, airline (except where otherwise stated), type of aircraft (if advised) or destination airport will all be treated as minor changes. Period before departure within which a significant change or cancellation is notified to you or your travel agent

Compensation per person

More than 70 days: 70 – 42 days: 41 – 28 days: 27 – 15 days: 14 – 0 days:

NIL £20 £30 £40 £50

FORCE MAJEURE Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage, loss or expense of any nature as a result of “force majeure”. In these booking conditions, “force majeure” means any event which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events outside our control. OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU FOR YOUR HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS (a) We promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract with you are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or your contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, your contracted holiday arrangements. Please note, it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers). (b) We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (for example loss of enjoyment), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected or any member(s) of their party or the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable or ‘force majeure’ as defined above (c) For claims which do not involve personal injury, illness or death, the most we will have to pay if we are liable to you is twice the price the person affected paid for their holiday (not including insurance premiums and amendment charges). We will only have to pay this maximum amount if everything has gone wrong and you have received no benefit from your holiday. Where enjoyment of only some days has been affected, we will refund reasonable related expenses and pay a daily sum of compensation up to £50 per day per person affected. (d) Subject to (b) above, if you are killed, injured or become ill during or as a result of, carriage (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) by aircraft, ship or train forming part of the holiday arrangements booked before departure from the UK and to which any international convention or regulation applies, our liability to pay compensation and/or the amount of compensation we will pay is limited. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/or for airlines with

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Booking Information

an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail). Where a carrier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier for the claim in question. Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request.

(e) Under EU law you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. However reimbursement in such cases will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline will be deducted from this amount. If your airline does not comply with these rules you should complain to the Air Transport Users’ Council on 020 7240 6061 www.auc.org.uk (f ) Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract. This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not advertised by us and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract and any excursion you purchase in resort. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any advertising material or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you. (g) Our suppliers (such as airlines, accommodation or transport providers) have their own booking conditions or conditions of carriage, and these conditions are binding between you and the supplier. Some of these conditions may limit or remove the relevant transport provider’s or other supplier’s liability to you. You can get copies of such conditions from our offices, or the offices of the relevant supplier. (h) Operational decisions may be taken by air carriers and airports resulting in delays, diversions or rescheduling. Carrier has no control over such decisions, and is therefore unable to accept responsibility for them. Where, as a result of force majeure we are obliged to change or end your holiday after departure, but before the end of your holiday, we will not pay compensation or reimburse you for expenses incurred. You should have adequate travel insurance for your holiday and claim via your insurance company for any loss or damage to luggage and/or personal possessions. In the event that any claim is made directly with us, our liability to pay compensation and/or the amount of compensation will be limited in accordance with the conventions referred to in (d) where applicable. EXPERIENCES Experiences which form part of your package: We are pleased to be able to offer various ‘experiences’ , such as diving, which you can pre-book in the UK and pay us for as part of your holiday arrangements. Some of these experiences may require you to be in good physical and mental health and, by booking with us, you confirm that you and your party are in good health with no medical history that would make it dangerous for you to participate. You must observe safety instructions at all times. We will only

Airlines accept responsibility for these experiences in accordance with these booking conditions. The experiences are subject to minimum numbers, and may be cancelled at short notice. In such circumstance, you will receive a full refund of monies paid for the excursion or activity in question. Experiences which do not form part of your package: We are also able to offer assistance and reserve certain experiences and activities for you, for which you pay locally. In these circumstances, we only act as a booking agent for the operator of the experience concerned. Your contract will therefore be with the local operator which provides it and it does not form part of your contracted holiday arrangements with us. The contract will be subject to the local operator’s terms and conditions, some of which may exclude or limit its liability to you, and will be governed by local law and jurisdiction. Carrier accepts no liability for any breach of contract or negligent act or omission of any excursion/ activity provider. LOCALLY BOOKED EXCURSIONS/ACTIVITIES Whilst you are away on holiday you may be offered the opportunity to buy optional excursions and activities. These are provided by independent local companies, which are neither owned nor controlled by Carrier, and for whom Carrier acts only as an agent (if we make a booking for you). If you decide to buy an excursion or activity, your contract will be made with the local company which provides it and it will not form part of your contracted holiday arrangements with us. The contract will be subject to the excursion/ activity provider’s terms and conditions, some of which may exclude or limit its liability to you, and will be governed by local law and jurisdiction. Carrier accepts no liability for any breach of contract or negligent act or omission of any excursion/activity provider. Some excursions/activities may contain an element of risk or require a good level of physical fitness. If in doubt, you should make direct inquiries with the local provider before deciding to buy, and check that you are covered by your travel insurance policy. IF YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT Most problems can be sorted out straight away if we are aware of them. If you have cause for complaint whilst on holiday, you must bring it to the attention of our local representative and/or the supplier (eg Hotel Manager) immediately, or call the emergency contact number provided in your travel documents. They will do their best to rectify the situation. If you do not raise concerns immediately, this may affect our ability to investigate and take remedial action and it may impact on the way your complaint is dealt with. If a problem remains unresolved during your holiday, you should make a complaint in writing to Carrier within 28 days of the completion of the holiday. Please remember to quote your holiday booking number and daytime telephone number. We are a member of ABTA and whilst we hope that we can settle any holiday complaints amicably, should this prove not to be the case you may refer any dispute relating to this contract to an Arbitrator appointed by the IDRS, part of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. The scheme provides for a simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability for you in respect of costs. The scheme does not apply to claims for an amount greater than £5,000 per person or £25,000 per booking. Neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences, although claims which include an element of minor injury or illness can be considered subject to a limit of £1,000 on the amount the arbitrator can award per person, in respect of this element. The application for arbitration and Statement of Claim must be received by the IDRS within 12 months of the date of return from the holiday. Outside this time limit arbitration under the Scheme may still be available if the

company agrees, but the ABTA Code does not require such agreement. For injury and illness claims, you may like to use the ABTA/Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Mediation Procedure. This is a voluntary scheme and requires us to agree for mediation to go ahead. The aim is to help you resolve your dispute in a quick and cost effective way. Details on request or from www.abta.com. LAW AND JURISDICTION We both agree that English Law (and no other) will apply to your contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description which arises between us (“claim”) (except as set out below). We both also agree that any claim (and whether or not involving any personal injury) must be dealt with under the ABTA arbitration scheme (if the scheme is available for the claim in question and you wish to use it – see above) or by the Courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of Court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the Courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have your contract and claim governed by the law of Scotland/Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply). DATA PROTECTION POLICY For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998, we are a data controller. Our full Data Protection Policy appears on our website and the following is a summary only. In order to process your booking, send you a brochure or respond to an enquiry, we need to collect personal data from you which may include information relating to any disability or medical condition you may have and any dietary restrictions which may disclose your religious beliefs. Appropriate personal data will be passed on to the relevant suppliers and any other third party who need to know it so that your holiday can be provided. The information may also be provided to government / public authorities such as customs, immigration and the security services or as required by law. We may disclose personal data to companies in the Kuoni Group. Other than in relation to government / public authorities, we will take appropriate steps which are intended to ensure that anyone to whom we pass your personal data for any reason agrees to keep it secure and only uses it for the purposes of providing their services. If we cannot pass on personal data, we will be unable to fulfil your booking. In making your booking, you consent to personal data being passed on to the relevant suppliers and other third parties. We take appropriate technical and organisational measures which are intended to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing of personal data and accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, personal data. Your personal data may be stored, used and otherwise processed within the UK and/or any other country(ies) of the European Economic Area (EEA). We may also store, use or otherwise process personal data outside the EEA. Data protection laws may not be as strong outside the EEA as they are in the EEA. We would also like to store and use your personal data for future marketing purposes unless you have told us that you do not wish us to do so. If you do not wish to receive future marketing material, please notify us by writing to the address below or by e-mail to [insert appropriate e-mail address]. You are generally entitled to ask us what details of yours are being held or processed, for what purpose and to whom they may be or have been disclosed. If you believe that any of your personal data which we are processing is incorrect, please contact us immediately. Any information request or notification of incorrect data should be addressed to The Company Secretary, Carrier, No.1 Lakeside, Cheadle, Cheshire SK8 3GW.

FIRST

* A choice of check-in options including a dedicated check- in area at selected airports

* Access to the Departures lounge

* Dedicated First Departure lounges at London Heathrow and London Gatwick

* Complimentary treatment at the Elemis Travel Spa at London Heathrow

* Armchair-style seat and footstool which convert into a 6’ fully flat bed

* Spacious personal demi-cabin

* Privacy between seats at the touch of a button * Audio Visual On Demand entertainment system with over 200 film, TV, music and games options †

* Enhanced seats which convert into a 6’ 6” horizontal bed * Complimentary sleeper suit and Anya Hindmarch designed wash bag with luxury skincare products * Audio Visual On Demand entertainment system with over 200 film, TV, music and games options †

CLUB WORLD

* A choice of check-in options

* Local and international cuisine with a complimentary bar service * Snacks available from the Club World kitchen

* A la carte dining at a time that suits you

* Access to the Arrivals lounges at London Heathrow and

* Complimentary bar service

London Gatwick

WORLD TRAVELLER PLUS

* Access to Arrivals lounges at London Heathrow and London Gatwick

CLUB EUROPE

* A choice of check-in options * Fast track security channel * Access to the Departures lounge * Separate cabin at the front of the aircraft

* A separate, quieter, premium economy cabin * Larger seats and 7” more legroom than World Traveller * Audio Visual On Demand entertainment system with over 200 film, TV, music and games options † * Meals designed by leading chefs with complimentary bar service throughout

* In-flight entertainment on some longer routes * A choice of hot meals and snacks * Complimentary bar service including Champagne

† Currently being introduced across longhaul routes, not available on all aircraft

British Airways Club World

British Airways Club Lounge

Additional brochures in our portfolio: Africa

The Americas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; USA, Canada & Mexico

Europe & North Africa

Arizona, California, Canada, Florida, Hawaii, Las Vegas, Mexico, New York and Utah.

Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Ibiza, Ireland, Italy, Jordan, Madeira, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia and Turkey.

Call 0161 491 7610

Call 0161 491 7640

Call 0161 491 7650

Caribbean

Worldwide

Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Grenada, Jamaica, Mexico, St Barths, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, The Bahamas, The Grenadines, Tobago and Turks & Caicos.

Australia, Bhutan, Borneo, Cambodia, China, Fiji, French Polynesia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.

Indian Ocean & Arabia

Call 0161 491 7620

Call 0161 491 7630

Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Victoria Falls and Zanzibar.

www.carrier.co.uk CARRIER, NO.1 LAKESIDE, CHEADLE, CHESHIRE SK8 3GW TEL: 0161 491 7600 EMAIL: ASPECTS@CARRIER.CO.UK Carrier Limited registered in England No. 2671002 ATOL 2968 ABTA V0391

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Maldives, Mauritius, Oman, Qatar, Ras Al Khaimah, Seychelles and Sri Lanka.

Call 0161 491 7660