ISSUE SEVEN
Discover the Porto Elounda with our exclusive programmes this summer.
by POWDER BYRNELearn about all the possibilities for a unique farm stay at our beautiful Andalusian ranch.
Avoid the pitfalls with a deep-dive into our dedicated services for every member of your family.
We’re delighted to have the opportunity to introduce you to our unique approach and share all the possibilities and recommendations that will truly enhance your next holiday. Through hand-crafting every element, we’ll identify precisely what you are looking for, and you can trust us and our experienced team to make it happen.
Within these pages you’ll learn about our philosophy and some of the things that make a Powder Byrne holiday different. In combination with our website, you’ll find a deep resource of further information on our destinations, properties and programmes, and we’re ready to take your call to start discussing your requirements in more detail.
Nothing matters more to us than caring for your needs. You will enjoy service and experiences that are completely individual, making all the difference. With us, everything’s possible. Welcome to Powder Byrne.
SIMON MEEKE MANAGING DIRECTOR Powder Byrne
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An introduction to what drives us as and why we are so passionate about delivering seamless holidays.
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A focus on quality, service and flexibility and how we consider you a client for life.
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Happy kids make for happy parents on holiday - our unique approach puts your children at the centre of our programme.
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Our client concierge team provide an invaluable resource - discover how we take care of all the little details so you don’t have to.
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Discover our exclusive programme in elounda, luxurious hotel options and our full host of services to support your family.
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Learn more about our action-packed kids programmes this summer which will have kids of all ages raring to go each morning.
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Our new division ‘inspired japan’ is ready to introduce you to this alluring country with a family adventure this summer.
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Your andalusian base from which to explore tranquil countryside and a laid-back lifestyle on our unique working polo finca.
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Explore our new programme of hosted summer adventures combining luxurious accommodation, amenities and the best of the mountains.
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The italian dolomites are calling for those in search of an unexpected and altogether different holiday.
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If your family is craving a new challenge and want to combine enriching holiday activities that you can all learn together ...
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Faqs and insights into how to plan that all important first time family skiing holiday.
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Learn about our exclusive ski programmes from first steps on skis, to how we pass on our passion to the next generation of skiers.
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We lift the lid on our private apartments in arosa, designed exclusively for powder byrne families to offer you a home from home in the mountains.
The staff were absolutely excellent, with a uniformly positive and friendly attitude - highly impressive. Others had told us what to expect and that your service was unrivaled and you did not disappoint.”
What started in Switzerland with a passion for powder skiing has developed into a global business focused on providing the highest quality flexibility and service for a wide range of clients; from individuals to families, to groups and corporates. We’ve come a long way but we’ve never lost sight of our founding ethos, which you’ll find underpins everything we do; whether skiing in the Alps, relaxing in one of our summer resorts, or exploring a new adventure destination.
Everything we do is focused on the experience we create for our clients. As our client, we’ll treat you the way we would expect to be treated, always putting your needs at centre of our operations. As we’ve developed holiday solutions and services, we’ve focused on identifying and solving the real challenges you face, and the bespoke approach we take allows us to make sure everything is tailored to your needs.
Many companies promise exceptional service, but few are prepared or capable of delivering what it takes to live up to the promise. Our service relies on building rapport and trust, investing time to really understand your objectives and the needs of each individual traveling. It is as much about how we respond to those needs and support you before you travel as it is about the services we deliver whilst you are travelling as our guests, because every holiday is different and nothing we do is off the shelf. Our aim is to deliver and exceed your expectations and we’re only satisfied when we know we made all the difference.
Rory Byrne founded Powder Byrne in 1985 because he wanted to provide something better for clients looking for dedicated personal service.
We are acutely aware that every client, every family, has different needs, and therefore we take a bespoke approach to every holiday we create because we truly care about enhancing your experience. We offer you complete flexibility regardless of where or when you wish to travel, where you are coming from and what transport options you would like to consider. Your holiday is tailored to your precise needs. So once you have decided on your destination or resort, you can be confident that we have hand-picked the best available accommodation and local partners. We select, monitor and work in partnership with the highest quality hotel and private properties available to ensure your experience is always memorable.
Many clients come to us having previously travelled independently, and are surprised that the flexibility that they are used to enjoying is not compromised and how the overall travel experience is enhanced by our in-resort teams. Time and again we receive feedback from new clients saying they really did appreciate the level of service they enjoyed, and how this has revolutionised their holiday experience. Here’s a quote from a client who successfully bid for their holiday in a charity auction and skied with us in Zurs:
We had an excellent week, everything ran incredibly smoothly. All of the staff we met were friendly, sociable, confident and competent. This was very reassuring for us when leaving our boys with the instructors and guides for their day-long sessions. Our boys responded incredibly well to the approach of the instructors and guides and both wanted to stay in ski school all day, something that hasn’t happened before on previous occasions. They had a wonderful time on the slopes and their skiing certainly improved – we really enjoyed the evening updates on their progress. For us it was very relaxing; we really enjoyed the group ski guiding and lunches. The guides knew the resort incredibly well and looked after us with patience and calm in some tricky white-out conditions.
The Powder Byrne team could not have been more helpful, we hardly had to think of, or arrange, anything. Taxi lifts to all parts of the resort for us and our kit, restaurant bookings and even shopping for swimming trunks for the boys which we had forgotten to pack – nothing was too much trouble. All of the Powder Byrne team worked together to allow us to focus on getting the most out of our week.
We have asked ourselves two questions; would we have booked with Powder Byrne prior to winning this holiday in the auction? The answer here is more than likely not. It is difficult to fully appreciate without experiencing the service the value added by the Powder Byrne set-up. And secondly having experienced this trip would we consider holidaying with Powder Byrne in the future? Yes, most definitely.”
Becoming a client and experiencing our unique approach is just the beginning. We’ll take time to understand your feedback upon your return and use this to ensure we can respond to your future travel needs in an even more personalised way. Once you have travelled with us we consider you a client for life. You’ll receive your unique PB Lifetime Number and our Client Concierge team is available to you for invaluable support and advice about future opportunities.
For those clients travelling as a family, we are acutely aware that your needs and interests will evolve over time. As parents ourselves, we know that the things that preoccupy new parents travelling with infants are a world away from the needs of a family with boisterous, active teens. In a similar way, the interests of a young ski group looking for big distances and après-ski may be quite dif-
ferent to the priorities of a couple whose children have flown the nest, who are looking to enjoy a more refined and relaxing holiday with friends. Our programmes offer the depth and flexibility to deliver a diverse range of services that add value whatever stage you have reached.
We’re proud that so many of those who travel with us each year are returning clients, and the personal referrals of friends and family are the ultimate accolade. Our various children’s programmes, whether winter or summer focused, are designed to encourage progression and development and offer continuity across all our destinations, so your children can pick up where they left off last season with their tennis coach or their ski instructor and you can be confident they waste no time getting back into the swing of things.
We understand that only when the kids are happy and content can parents really switch off and relax, so trusting us with your precious little ones is the key to the success of your holiday. Our wonderful staff make all the difference, and they are the reason our clients keep coming back.
Our childcare teams are experienced, bright individuals who are hand-picked and carefully trained by us, and we adhere to the strictest standards, policies and procedures when it comes to our children’s programmes, so you can rest assured that your children are in the safest of hands.
Our children’s programmes are designed to create a sense of freedom and the right environment for each child to thrive, all orchestrated by our childcare staff, who look after your kids in a big brotherly or sisterly way. The focus is on trying new things, learning something new and achieving progression during their holiday, be it improving their skiing ability, learning to surf or improving their tennis skills; it’s the best confidence booster. We know we’ve achieved our goal when the children feel that it’s their parents who are missing out on all the fun they’re having. From infants to teens, we’ve perfected the formula for an incredible holiday for each member of the family.
We know that every family is different, with distinct needs, so we work with families to understand the perfect balance between time together as a family and time to pursue individual interests. We deliver holidays with the level of support that is just right for you and your family to make all the difference.
We believe that the better prepared you are for all the little details, the smoother and more relaxing your holiday will be once you arrive in your chosen resort. Over the years we have honed our approach and developed an experienced and capable Client Concierge team who have a detailed knowledge of our properties and resort partners, meaning you can trust our recommendations and advice as we plan and prepare for your departure.
For those travelling with us for the first time, it is hard to anticipate all the services and options available to you, so we take time to really understand your requirements. This will be achieved through a thorough hand-over from your travel consultant who has prepared your holiday and an introductory phone call from our Client Concierge team who will talk you through and explain our services and the many options available.
You will be taken through the daily schedules for each of your children, recommended dining options, ideas for activities and other experiences you may wish to enjoy, as well as how our in-resort teams will interact and support you on a daily basis. Once all your arrangements have been secured, you will be given access to your personalised MyPB app, where all the details about your holiday are presented. With daily schedules, detailed information on the children’s programmes, contact information for your resort manager and in-app messaging, allowing you to seamlessly message with our team for last minute queries. New for this season, we’ve even created a MyMemories section so you’ll receive photos of your children from their time in our clubs throughout the week.
For clients skiing in our winter programmes, we offer our exclusive Ski Butler service which ensures that you will hit the slopes as quickly and seamlessly as possible. This dedicated service means that Powder Byrne will have your ski passes and all your ski equipment ready upon your arrival to avoid unnecessary delays. The service also includes the complimentary replacement of any lost or stolen ski passes when notified immediately so that we can help make alternative arrangements for you. The service is fully wrapped with a member of our team waiting to greet you each morning in your ski boot rooms to assist with your boots and equipment before accompanying you to the slopes.
Before you travel, our Client Concierge team will liaise with you regarding your preference for ski hire equipment and gather the necessary information such as height, weights, boot size, and abilities for each family member. We work with the best equipment providers who have the latest and widest choice of skis, snowboards, boots, and safety equipment available. Your family will be hosted by Powder Byrne through the collection of your rental equipment to avoid any hassle. Furthermore, your resort team will collect, check and prepare your ski passes and present them to you upon arrival so that you avoid any long queues at the ticket office. If you are bringing your own skis, please inform us if you would like us to arrange any servicing before your first full day on the mountain. We can also help your family with any additional ski clothing or accessory shopping requests.
The dedicated service you enjoy from our Client Concierge team continues once you arrive in resort, as our local team will have been through a thorough hand-over in preparation for your arrival so nothing is missed. You’ll have a dedicated contact who will meet you each evening with daily feedback about your children’s progress, with information from instructors and our staff who are accompanying them. They will run through plans for the following day and any adjustments or support you might need, and can make local reservations and bookings for you.
The long-awaited summer holidays provide the perfect chance to escape as a family and create lasting memories.
Our meticulous planning and expertise ensure every little detail is taken care of so you can relax and enjoy your precious time away. With a combination of our dedicated in-resort services, beautiful resorts and our unique approach to childcare, we ensure each member of the family gets just what they need out of their holiday. Make the most of the July & August holidays and enjoy a relaxing break with your family where all your needs are anticipated.
Discover the exclusive Elounda properties and enjoy dedicated Powder Byrne service throughout the summer school holidays, whilst the kids have a wonderful time in our exclusive programmes.
On the northern coast of Crete lies the Porto Elounda and sister property the Elounda Peninsula All-Suite Hotel, a beautiful seaside retreat in an extraordinary setting. For over 20 years we’ve been sending clients to the beautiful Mirabella bay, and it’s no surprise it has become so popular with clients returning year after year. The tranquility and slow pace of life strike you immediately and the picturesque Porto Elounda resort, where attentive staff and stunning surroundings set the scene for a magical holiday where you can really switch off.
Stay with Powder Byrne at Porto Elounda this summer and you’ll enjoy access to all of the resorts’ wonderful facilities; private sandy beaches, sensational six senses spa, stunning seafront swimming pools and eight fabulous restaurants. Our Powder Byrne team will be in Elounda throughout the summer holidays to help you unlock the best local experiences and ensure the kids are having a ball in our exclusive programmes including Scallywags, TheZone and PB Adventure Academy, plus our ‘Learn Together’ family programmes including scuba diving, cycling and sailing adventures.
The recently refurbished rooms and suites are simply yet elegantly decorated and finished with luxurious marble bathrooms and every room faces out towards the sea offering stunning views. Each room or suite has a private balcony or terrace, many with shared or private pools. They are all designed to capitalise on the stunning views across the private estate and out into the bay, with lots of natural light from wall to wall windows. The hotel style is typically Greek with lots of original art and antiques, spacious and airy public spaces as well as carefully considered areas where you can settle down as a family - privacy and space to enjoy yourselves as you wish are given priority.
Porto Elounda’s gastronomic offering is truly outstanding with several of their restaurants winning numerous awards and the hotel’s extensive dine-around programme means you can experience different options every night of your stay. The addition of the Il Borro Tuscan Bistro on the waterfront, introduced this elegant dining concept from the Ferragamo family, reflecting the estate’s ‘farm to table’ philosophy, using fresh and seasonal ingredients to showcase traditional Italian dishes. New for 2023 is an exciting new Japanese restaurant set on the end of the private peninsula as well as a new complimentary water taxi service linking all the Elounda properties and restaurants, so you can arrive for your lunch or dinner reservation in style.
The incredible Six Senses Spa at Porto Elounda features 21 treatment areas including an authentic Turkish hammam, the Tepidarium and a bravura space that excites all the senses, plus private Thalassotherapy Suites complete with state-of-the-art facilities to balance the senses. We’d be happy to book you in for your favourite massage, which you’re welcome to have in the spa itself or in a secluded area on the hotel’s private beach.
Discover one of the most exclusive hotels in Greece, built on a private peninsula stretching out into the bay and comprised entirely of luxurious suites and villas with private pools which have each undergone a full renovation ready for the summer ‘23 season. You will experience unparalleled service as well as access to all the facilities and restaurants of the Porto Elounda on your doorstep.
Choose between Peninsula Junior Suites, one, two and three bedroom Collection Suites with individual pools. Then there are the larger Peninsula Grand Villas offering one, two or three bedrooms with private pools. Big families and groups will love the Diamond Residences, which are exclusive villas set on their own private beach ranging from one to seven bedrooms with private pools and other luxurious amenities.
To find out more about our exclusive programmes in Elounda for the summer holidays please visit our website or contact us for a personalised proposal.
Carefully designed and overseen by our dedicated teams who are hand-picked for being on the right wave-length, they can look forward to making new friends, trying new things and enjoying special holiday memories.
We know that the perfect summer holiday requires more than a beautiful destination, a lovely pool and delicious food. With over three decades of experience of getting all the little details just right, you can trust us to craft all the essential elements to enhance your precious family time. It’s the personal touches throughout your stay delivered by our in-resort team that will truly make the difference and we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to ensure that everything is just right for you. Contact us today to discuss your perfect summer escape and learn more about our unique approach to family summer holidays.
We’re here to keep your kids entertained non-stop throughout the summer holidays thanks to our fantastic children’s clubs in Crete. Run by our outstanding teams, we take great care of your children, from four months in our pb crèche, 4-7 years in Scallywags, 8-11 in The Zone and from 12 years in our PB Adventure Academy. We also offer our PB Scuba Academy for children aged 10 years and above who want to try diving for the first time.
We’re cranking up the fun this summer in Crete with a focus on action-packed programmes that will give your kids a healthy break from their virtual worlds and the pressures of school routines.
4 months - 3 years
There’s so much fun to be had in our pb crèche. From splashing in the pool and collecting shells on the beach to nature walks and building sandcastles. Back inside they play with arts and crafts and enjoy sing-a-long story time, balancing indoor and outdoor activities, guaranteed to keep even the most active toddlers engaged!
We aim to create a home from home environment by asking you to provide detailed information pre-travel about routines, meal times and dietary requirements. We offer an indispensable pre-purchase service for all sorts of essentials including nappies, wipes, formula or favourite foods, so just let us know what you need and it will be waiting for you in your room. You’ll be able to speak to your crèche manager before you travel to help with any queries.
4-7 years
Our Scallywags programme is the perfect solution for children with boundless energy, providing action packed, fun filled days in a safe environment full of new-found friends. While the kids are having the time of their lives in Scallywags, parents are free to relax and enjoy the resort surroundings and all of the activities on offer.
Our carefully designed programme makes the most of excellent resort facilities and local attractions. Every day offers a mix of active sports, adventure games and group play. Tennis and swimming sessions form a key part of the programme, developing skills and confidence. As part of the Powder Byrne Scallywags programme children will learn tennis based skills through a mixture of games and exercises with the Powder Byrne team.
8 - 11 years
Adrenaline fuelled, non-stop action awaits those looking for fun in TheZone. Your kids will be in their element in our structured daily programmes, which include water sports, sailing, swimming, tennis, football and golf sessions – not to mention wild inflatables and banana boats.
Our team are all carefully selected and ensure our Zoners have the best time and enjoy the full range of activities. All highly trained experts in fun, our team make sure your children are well supervised and taken care of. Lunches are supervised daily to ensure our Zoners stay energised and well hydrated throughout the day. Zoners will love our evening activities from 7pm to 9.30pm on two evenings of the week, ranging from beach barbecues to night market visits and pizza evenings, all supervised by our Zone team.
The turquoise waters of Elounda are perfect for watersports. Explore the underwater world with a discovery dive, master paddle boarding, wakeboard and waterskiing, or take part in the total wipeout inflatable course. Crete also has some excellent land-based activities for teens with great mountain biking, water parks, as well as the excellent tennis courts and golf facilities at the hotel.
The Adventure Academy incorporates the best of the hotel facilities, local attractions and excursions, all overseen by our PB Adventure Academy Manager. Each day will provide a full programme of varied, fun-fuelled sports and activities, with a supervised lunch.
Our exciting and exclusive ‘Learn Together’ programmes are perfect for active families. We’ve hand-picked a selection of sports and activities you can learn together as a family to bring you closer together and create a totally new focus to your holiday.
Family SCUBA in Crete
Discover a fascinating underwater world.
½ Based out of the PADI Gold Palm dive school in Elounda
½ Personal dive instructor to oversee all dives
½ Choose from 3 to 5 day programmes to work around your family
½ All equipment you’ll need is provided
Family Mountain Biking in Crete
Enjoy three individual day excursions fully supported by our local team.
½ A mixture of road and mountain biking.
½ Logistics and pickups all overseen so you can focus on your enjoyment.
½ Dramatic canyons and gorges as well as winding coastal routes.
The Tokyo Sky Tree was phenomenal and we were really lucky that it was such a clear day! The museum for emerging science was amazing and the robots were fascinating, the kids loved it.
Thanks so much for sorting a reservation at the Pokémon café, there was such a long queue of people without a booking and we could skip straight to the front which was great.”
A two-week summer tour of Japan provides the opportunity to explore three islands and experience the breadth of culture Japan has to offer. In addition the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, spending longer in the country gives you the opportunity to visit Koyasan, the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, and stay overnight in a temple there, cross between the islands on the longest span bridge in the world and absorb the stunning natural beauty of Shikoku. Read on for an example itinerary for your summer adventure.
DAY 1
Your International flight arrives in Tokyo and your English speaking guide will meet you and accompany you to your hotel. If you have a morning arrival you may want to start exploring the city in the afternoon and your guide will be on hand to make suggestions. Overnight at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo.
DAY 2
Your guide will meet you after breakfast and accompany you on your tailor-made itinerary, which we will have agreed with you before you travel. This may include starting at the famous Tsukiji fish market, or beginning your journey of discovery around the most important heritage sites, temples and gardens that are dotted throughout the city. Your time in Tokyo will allow you to soak up the local character of the different districts, enjoy lunch in a carefully selected restaurant, visit museums and attractions that suit your interests. After a packed day in Tokyo, you can retire once more to the Imperial Hotel, experiencing service and comfort that has welcomed royalty and heads of state for over 120 years with impeccable Japanese hospitality.
DAY 3
Bidding Tokyo goodbye, you’ll take a bullet train via Nagoya and your guide will greet you on the platform in Ise-city, Mie. They will accompany you to Ise Jingu and the many other Shinto shrines in the area, where more than 1500 rituals are conducted each year, before organising a private car to transport you to Kumano city, Mie, where you can enjoy a hot spring bath at the Hotel Kumano Club, your base for the night.
The next morning will see you venture out of the city, to visit the rice paddy regions at Maruyama Senmaida and walk part of the Kumano Kodo, the ancient pilgrimage routes, all accompanied by your guide. If of interest, you can experience staying overnight at the temple lodging in Koyasan, getting a glimpse of the monastic lifestyle, enjoying simple, traditional cuisine and attending morning prayers. Overnight in the old working monastery Fudo-in at Koyasan.
Having gained an insight into the lifestyles of Buddhist monks, your guide will introduce you to the most important temples in the area, notably in Koyasan, Garan and Kongobuji. They will provide in-depth knowledge allowing you to appreciate the temples beyond their architectural beauty. This can be combined with local excursions into the beautiful local countryside including the foothills of Mt. Koya. You will retreat to the Sanso Amanosato, a beautiful property which offers delicious local cuisine, options for glamping in a tent in front of your bedroom - wonderful for the kids to sleep under the stars!
Before heading to Kyoto, you’ll take a day to venture to the historic city of Nara. The old city, which stood as the Imperial Capital of Japan 1300 years ago, offers eight spectacular temples, shrines and ruins which conjointly form another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plenty of opportunities to get close to local wildlife here, including Nara’s sacred deer. We’ll organise a private car to pick you up and take you to your hotel in Kyoto once you’ve taken in Nara’s highlights. Overnight at Hotel Nazuna Nijo in Kyoto.
Your guide will meet you at your hotel before taking you on a journey into the heart of the history of Kyoto, exploring the 400-year-old Nijo Castle, the landscaped gardens and the Buddhist temples: Kinkaku-ji, with its magnificent Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera, which takes its name from the waterfall it is constructed around. The central location of the Nazuna Nijo allows you to readily explore Kyoto before retreating into the peaceful sanctuary of the traditional Japanese inn for a delicious meal.
Having explored many of the World Heritage Sites, the final day in Kyoto provides the opportunity to choose from a number of experiences. Clients have enjoyed learning about samurai traditions at a personal workshop where you can dress and participate. There are also opportunities to learn more about Japanese Geisha culture, or visit local studios and craftspeople. Final over-night at Nazuna Nijo.
You’ll depart with your guide by private transfer to one of the most spectacular historical gardens in Japan, Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu City, via Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the longest span bridge in the world. We’ll arrange to see the Naruto whirlpools and Tokushima Port along the way, before arriving at Hotel Kotohira Kadan, Kagawa.
DAY 10
The journey to Hiroshima continues with your private guide via Kotohira-gu, the most prominent of the Kompira shrines. In the afternoon we’ll stop at Imabari city to visit the castle surrounded by its unusual seawater moat, before completing the journey to arrive in Matsue city, and overnighting at the Hotel Minami-kan, which sits on the shore by Lake Shinji-ko, Shimane.
DAY 11
The following morning you’ll visit Matsue Castle. Known as the black castle, it is one of the last remaining wooden medieval castles in Japan and makes for a great contrast to Izumo Taisha, one of the most famous and most important shrines in Japan, which we recommend visiting the same day before returning to your hotel.
DAY 12
A morning at leisure is followed by an internal flight to Tokyo. The penultimate day in Japan presents an opportunity to explore Tokyo once again, perhaps visiting the Tokyo National Museum, which specialises in traditional Japanese art, or climbing Tokyo Tower for a final view of the bustling capital before enjoying Tokyo’s internationally acclaimed cuisine one last time. Your final night in the Imperial Hotel Tokyo provides the perfect location to explore Tokyo, ideally placed for a streamlined journey to the airport the following morning.
Inspired Japan tours are tailor-made to suit your requirements and this is just an example of the experience we can arrange for you. Please contact us to discuss your precise interests and we will be pleased to put together a personalised itinerary.
Family holidays at our Private Family Finca are all about enjoying the unique laid-back lifestyle and beautiful setting. Countryside hacks and river rides combine with lazy beach days and day trips to captivating Spanish cities to create the perfect Andalucian adventure.
Polo Valley opened the gates to their purpose built ranch in Sotogrande, Spain with the dream of introducing new players and families to the thrilling, fast paced sport of polo. Born out of Rory Byrne’s own experience of learning to ride and play polo and his son Christian’s desire to share the sport he loves and make it more accessible, Polo Valley has quickly established itself as a one-of-a-kind polo facility and a unique holiday destination for families to saddle up and experience ranch- life in authentic Andalucia.
With first-class stabling, livery and training facilities, home to over 50 expertly trained ponies, a team of grooms and polo professionals, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Polo Valley is a no-go-zone for anyone other than polo aficionados. This however could not be further from the truth. Family holidays at the Polo Valley Finca are all about enjoying the unique laid-back lifestyle and beautiful setting, rather than exclusively playing polo.
Occupying a secluded location in the hills above Sotogrande, a gleaming white Guesthouse occupies a prime position at the entrance to the Finca. The private Guesthouse plays host to families throughout the spring and summer months (with special stays available at Christmas and New Year), serving as their base from which to enjoy all of the activities on offer at the Finca, around Sotogrande and across the region of Andalucia.
The Guesthouse boasts comfortable en-suite bedrooms, a private swimming pool and fabulous dining terrace elegantly set within relaxing gardens. Best of all, the Guesthouse is expertly run by two local cooks ‘el cocinero’ who serve up delicious Spanish cuisine such as gazpacho, tortilla, paella, colourful fresh salads and special Argentinian-style Asado BBQ. Together with the on-site concierge team, they take care of all your requirements throughout your stay at the Finca.
Our suggested itinerary for a family adventure at polo valley:
DAY 1 SATURDAY ARRIVAL
Arrive at the finca and settle into farm life with dinner in the garden
DAY 2 SUNDAY
Introduction to riding in the morning on the private track with an afternoon hack in the outback.
DAY 3 MONDAY
Morning yoga and e-bike mountain trail tour. Afternoon riding and introduction to polo, or the option to explore local beaches.
DAY 4 TUESDAY
Morning e-bike or mountain hack tour with all parties meeting for a mountain picnic lunch. Afternoon relaxing by the private pool with massage treatments optional.
DAY 5 WEDNESDAY
Enjoy breakfast at the finca then relax by the beach with reserved beach club loungers.
DAY 6 THURSDAY
Enjoy breakfast at the finca then a morning e-bike or polo riding lesson. Afternoon watersports fun on the private lake.
Morning polo experience with afternoon relaxing and evening polo valley asado.
SATURDAY DEPARTURE DAY
*note: sunday, monday, tuesday, thursday & friday include breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the finca. Wednesday is breakfast only.
Asado is far more than a BBQ as we know it. Asado is the technique and social event of grilling meat over an open fire. Tracing its roots back to the days when huge herds of wild cattle roamed the pampa region and a great source of national pride in Argentina, Asado has become popular across the Spanish speaking world. A fire of charcoal and dry seasoned wood is lit under a grill called a parilla. Once the flames have died down cuts of meat are placed on the parilla and grilled slowly for 1-2 hours above the smouldering embers. Top tip: Turning and adjusting the meat is frowned upon, simply sit back and enjoy the experience with a glass of wine.
The Guadiaro river ride is an enjoyable one hour loop that sets off from the Finca and takes you on a winding and gentle hack through the peaceful Andalucian countryside towards the distant hills. As you meander down the dusty path your guide will lead you through the undergrowth and on to the banks of the Guadiaro. The ponies love this part of the hack and they are very sure-footed over the uneven terrain, responding to gentle adjustments on the reigns, happy to take it slow or slightly faster if you’re feeling confident. Once you’re in the river the fun really starts and the ponies splash and dip their heads to refresh themselves. The river is mainly very shallow and it’s great fun to trot or even gallop through the babbling water. Your guide will help you navigate any slightly tricky sections, they know the surrounding countryside like the back of their hand and have a deep understanding of each and every pony on the ranch. Local attractions and discoveries
Away from the Finca, Sotogrande is a first class holiday destination and sporting playground with so much to see and do. There are seven excellent golf courses within the immediate vicinity, including Real Club Valderrama, considered one of the best courses in the world, host to the 1997 Ryder Cup and a must play for avid golf fans. We recommend spending a family day at La Reserva Club Sotogrande, an exclusive country club in the hills of Andalucia with incredible facilities and service to match. The star attraction is the ‘only private beach in Spain’, a man-made lagoon surrounded by 2,800 square metres of sandy beach and separate 17,000 square metre sports lagoon providing the perfect setting to enjoy water sports including kayaking, stand up paddle boards and Mirage Eclipse water bikes. No engines are allowed on the lake, so peace is secured and the environment protected.
Sotogrande itself is home to an excellent marina with many vibrant bars, restaurants and shops. It’s great fun to take a stroll on the marina front, soak up the atmosphere and admire the many impressive yachts. There are lots of fun ways to explore the palm tree lined avenues and local beaches and we work with some great local partners where you can hire segways, bikes, electric scooters and even the iconic 1950’s Mini Moke vehicles.
Further afield we can arrange day trips to captivating Spanish cities such as Jerez and Seville. Head to Jerez in the province of Cadiz for a taste of sherry and flamenco dancing. This ancient city is a great day trip from Sotogrande and is home to tours of bodegas and cellars hosting sherry tastings. We also thoroughly recommend a trip to Seville, the capital of Andalucia and the cultural hub of the region. Stroll through the historic streets and soak up the major architectural landmarks, including the ornate Alcázar castle complex, the 18th-century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring and the Gothic Seville Cathedral.
With so many options for activities, adventures, sightseeing and day trips, every holiday at the Polo Valley Finca is different and unique. The ponies are the beating heart of life at the Finca and the daily routines of the grooms, the ponies and polo professionals create a special buzz and an atmosphere that is exciting to be a part of. In the evenings local players arrive to take part in competitive chukkers, a great spectacle to watch with a gin & tonic in hand from pitchside seats.
With the backdrop of ranch-life and the nature and peace of the countryside setting, the Finca provides the perfect location for a laid-back family holiday of discovery and adventure.
We’re ready to welcome you in Arosa this summer to showcase the extraordinary variety of activities and experiences that we know your family will enjoy. Come and see the mountains full of life this summer - let us prepare a bespoke programme that will challenge and reward every member of your family.
We’ve made the mountains our home and we’ve been unlocking their potential for thousands of skiers every winter since our first session in 1985. Thanks to our deep knowledge of our resorts, great hotels and the partners who help us deliver our programmes, we are delighted to share the best opportunities for an inspiring summer holiday with a difference.
Clients have been trusting us with their precious summer holidays for decades. During that time we have developed a strong understanding of exactly what works and where we can add the best value through our bespoke services and active programmes for adventurous kids. Because of this, we know that our Swiss summer adventure programme in Arosa will bring you unique experiences that adventurous families will love.
We have selected Arosa because of its unique location at the end of a high alpine valley, surrounded by beautiful peaks which shelter the resort and create wonderful summer micro-climate. With no transit traffic, the mountain village is so much quieter, and the air is particularly clear and pure. You’ll feel far away from the crowds and the bustle of the city or the thronged beaches of the Mediterranean as you take to the mountains, hosted by our experienced team, who will introduce you and your family to a whole variety of carefully selected activities.
For parents looking for a summer holiday where kids can head off and enjoy a carefully prepared programme of age-appropriate activities, hosted by our experienced team, look no further than Arosa. We’ve teamed up with a handpicked selection of our most popular hotels which offer you exceptional facilities, spas and gourmet restaurants, with the adventures of the mountains on your doorstep. You’ll also be able to choose to stay in one of our private apartments in Chesa Forma if you are looking for more privacy.
We’ll be running our award-winning children’s programmes at the end of July, including our pb creche for little ones and toddlers from 6 months - 3 years, our Mountain Scallywags programme for active 4-7 year olds, and our PB Mountain Academy for 9 years and above.
Our daily programmes will keep your kids active and entertained for a full morning with a supervised lunch, meaning parents can indulge in the facilities of your chosen hotel, or take to the mountains for a guided walk or an e-bike excursion. There are many wonderful mountain restaurants to choose from and we can tailor-make your schedule to ensure you get the most from your time in Arosa. There’s plenty of opportunity to head off on adventures together as a family as children are welcome to drop in and out of our programme throughout your stay, and you have afternoons together to enjoy the swimming lakes or your hotel pool.
Mountain biking: kids will join age-appropriate group tuition at the skills centre to develop their cycling skills, with the older ones heading off on suitable trails with our instructors.
Bear Sanctuary and active zone: the reintroduction of bears in a special purpose built sanctuary in Arosa has been a huge success and our Scallywags programme will enjoy the activity zone with climbing walls, viewing platforms and educational trails as part of a rich programme, whilst enjoying the opportunity to see the bears in their natural habitat.
Rope Park adventures: with a variety of courses, our teams will incorporate the fun and challenge of the Rope Park environment as children develop their confidence and skill, threading their way through the forest canopy.
Watersports on the lake: After active mornings on the mountain we’ll also incorporate lake swimming, SUPs and pedallos as we hit the splash park. With two lovely lakes, one offering a sandy beach for volleyball and sandcastle competitions, we’ll make full use of all the attractions.
Archery and survival skills: In our PB Adventure Academy, they’ll discover the skills of the hunter as they roam through a carefully designed outdoor archery experience, with a survival skills and mountain craft element delivered by local instructors.
Contact us to discover more about our Summer adventures in Arosa and the experience we can create for your family.
The ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, as Cortina is affectionately known, has many secrets.
Romans and Barbarians battled through her strategically important valleys, the Venetian Republic claimed ownership, before 400 years of Austro- Hungarian rule, coming to an end only after 3 years of bitter and ultimately futile battles in the Great War wasting the lives of a generation on a frozen front-line in the mountains high above the town. The Ampezzo valley was eventually ceded to Italy in 1920, but it remains today a fascinating melting pot; rooted in the Ladino culture of the early-middle ages, combined with the noble heritage of Habsburgs and Emperor Maximillian, mixed with the Mediterranean warmth of the Italians.
Fast forward to today and Cortina is preparing to host the 2026 Winter Olympics and Winter Paralympics with Milan. It’s a town undergoing nothing short of a revolution, as investment pours in, hotels enjoy face-lifts, new lift systems are launched and the doors are swung open again to the world to showcase the extraordinary beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Cortina is again the place to be and be seen.
The surrounding trails, lakes and peaks of the Ampezzo valley offer anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a seemingly never-ending choice. Take any path from the centre of the town and within a couple of minutes you’ll be winding through meadows, taking in beautiful mountain scenery from every angle. There’s amazing hiking, biking, horse riding, bouldering and climbing all on the doorstep and the infrastructure is in place to access all these pursuits with guides and equipment all co- ordinated by Powder Byrne locally. And because the town and surrounding villages are all linked by cycling paths, it is incredibly easy to get around without the intrusion of cars, allowing you to really slow down. For families looking for a healthy and active escape we don’t think it can be beaten!
We believe the most unexpected adventure awaits for families who join us for a via ferrata tour during their stay. The slopes around the area are criss-crossed by dozens of iron cable ways which, accompanied by a local guide, can be navigated to give you a totally different connection and perspective of these stunning mountains. Each via ferrata route is different, some quite short and others much longer, some more of a gentle walk, others requiring skill and nerves of steel! We’ll design your experience to incorporate lunch at a beautiful mountain hut along the way, or even an overnight in a summer farm or Refugio if you want something truly memorable.
Anyone who is reasonably fit and active can enjoy via ferrata, even people who are scared of heights. It’s great for active children and we’d recommend 8 years upwards as they do need to be able to take responsibility for their own safety as they move along the route, which are all graded by difficulty so we can design your experience accordingly. You will always be accompanied by an experienced local mountain guide who will help you and share all their local knowledge and stories.
The equipment is very simple and easy to use for adults and children and we work with a great rental partner who will provide you with everything you need: helmet, gloves and harness and can advise on the best clothing and footwear. You are connected to the cable-way the entire time and it is amazing how safe and secure you feel on terrain that you might otherwise never have dreamed of attempting!
We recommend building your confidence on one of the more gentle routes, for example a half day’s adventure to the Fanes waterfalls. You can approach the waterfalls by e-bike (more on these later) with a gentle 1 hour ride from your hotel with your guide. You’ll then get into your harness and clip onto the via ferrata cable and follow the path for around an hour through beautiful scenery, eventually arriving at the waterfalls. On your return there are various options for lunch at one of the local mountain huts, or you can return to your hotel for an afternoon of relaxing in the spa.
Once you have gained your confidence, you can embark on a full day programme. We recommend our local team drive you 20 minutes up the pass to Pass Val Parola, location of the largest open air museum from the First World War. The route starts with a walk up through a tunnel blown out of the mountain during the war, with the via ferrata taking you up through the Austrian army trenches, which brings the challenges of mountain warfare to stark reality. The ascent takes 2 hours and you are rewarded with sensational views across Cortina and the surrounding peaks. After a one hour walk back down your guide can arrange lunch in a local Refugio, access to the museum, or you can head back to Cortina to celebrate your achievements. If the kids still have energy to burn and want to brush up on their climbing skills, we can arrange a session at the enormous indoor climbing centre.
The year 1843 saw the creation of the very first iron path - a route on the Dachstein in the Austrian Alps. As the birthplace of via ferrata, Austria still has the most number of routes today, with an astonishing 741 in total. Coming a close second is Italy with over 400 paths to choose from. More than half of these (we think the best of all) are located in the beautiful Dolomites region. The Italian via ferrata was born during the First World War, over half a decade later than Austria. They were created to help move soldiers and equipment into strategic positions in the mountains by traversing along the craggy peaks using the steel cables and ropes. Today the routes have been transformed into a fun and popular holiday activity for active families and adventurous individuals. The routes unlock the mountains of the UNESCO world heritage park around Cortina and you can experience a connection with the mountains that you would otherwise never have.
Each route is different, some quite short and others much longer with varying levels of difficulty. You can build your confidence on the gentle routes and progress at your own speed. Some of the via ferrata routes work really well in combination with e-bikes, you can ride out from your hotel enjoying the spectacular scenery. We will design your day to suit you, incorporating lunch at a beautiful mountain hut along the way - you won’t want to miss the celebrated gourmet food that the Dolomites region is so well known for. We have rounded up a selection of our favorite via ferrata routes from the gentle introductory climbs to the more challenging ascents.
Giovanna Barrati, Fanes WaterfallsAs a gentle introduction to via ferrata we recommend starting on one of the less challenging routes. Our favourite is a half day adventure to Fanes waterfall. To reach the starting point you can enjoy a fun hour’s e-bike ride from your hotel with your guide. Once you are at Parcheggio Pian de Loa you will get into your harness and clip onto the via ferrata cable and follow the path - meandering along the gushing Rio di Fanes eventually arriving at the dramatic Fanes waterfalls.
One of the best parts of this route is going underneath the first cascade, with the water plummeting down around you, it’s an experience not to miss. Next is a gentle hike along an old military road and on through a forest into Valle di Fanes which opens out onto a deep gorge carved away by Rio di Fanes. A good point to take a break and take in the surrounding scenery is at the top of Croda Rossa. At 1,480m it is a fantastic viewpoint. On your return there are various options for lunch at one of the local mountain huts or you can return to your hotel for an afternoon relaxing in the spa.
BEST FOR: Families or your first time doing a via ferrata.
Another of our favourites and a slightly more challenging route takes you on a full day via ferrata climb. After a hearty breakfast, fuelling up for your active day ahead, one of our team will drive you up to the Pass Val Parola. This is where the largest open- air museum from the First World War is located. The route begins with a walk up through a tunnel blown out of the mountain during the war. Once you have reached the other side and turned the corner you can clip into the start of the via ferrata. The 2 hour ascent takes you through the old Austrian army trenches, a surreal experience seeing the harsh reality of the conditions experienced during the war. Once you have reached the top, a well-deserved break is in order. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sensational views across Cortina and the surrounding peaks. After a one hour walk back down you can enjoy a delicious Tyrolean lunch at one of the local Rifugios and try the regional delicacies, canelderi and spaetzle. If you are hungry to find out more about the historical site, the First World War museum is a great option to round off the day and your guide can organise access before heading back into Cortina.
BEST FOR: History fanatics and adventurous families
DIFFICULT
Added to the extensive list of via ferrata routes in 2015 the new Andrea e Maria Ferrari via ferrata is one of the shortest routes you can do. It is a great option if you are pushed for time but want to squeeze in a final exciting climb. Although short, this isn’t for the faint-hearted, it is a challenging climb and recommended for the super fit and more experienced. This route scales the right hand side of Torrione di Pomede with a 150m vertical climb of the rock face using 2 footbridges, steel cables and various steels and pegs. This is immediately followed by a 100m scramble along the ridge to reach the crest, Ra Bujela. Peaking at 1,875m, the views are fabulous and you are rewarded with a picturesque descent through the meadows beyond.
BEST FOR: Fitness enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies
This via ferrata leads up to the highest of the three Tofane mountains. Beginning with a long and difficult traverse, this route is another challenging one - recommended for the welltrained and more experienced climbers. Starting at 2,900m the views all the way along the route are spectacular and you really will feel on top of the world. After a couple of airy and difficult traverses along the East and North faces of the Torre you will reach the large Bus de Tofane window at 2,920m. Here there are links to Rifugio Giussani and Rifugio Dinona where you can have a pit stop if you fancy a refreshment before continuing up to the top. The final stretch to the summit involves tackling a couple of vertical drops using ladders and navigating a rocky path passing an avalanche barrier. Before descending to Rifugio Cima Tofana at 3,191m where you can enjoy a refreshing drink to celebrate your achievements and then jump in the cable car back down.
BEST FOR: Well trained and experienced climbers. Contact our expert team on 0208 246 5300 or enquire online to hear more about our exciting summer solutions in Cortina.
Join us for an exclusive family adventure at Polo Valley, our private ranch in the Andalucian outback, just moments from the famous sporting estates of Sotogrande. Learn as a family how to play the Sport of Kings with expert trainers, unrivaled luxury service, and world-class ponies suitable for all levels of riders, including complete beginners.
The use of the Polo Valley Finca is exclusive for Powder Byrne clients during the May Half Term, July, August, and October Half Term, and is ideal for one large family or a group of families travelling together.
In true Powder Byrne style, you can trust that our exclusive Learn Together programme is designed with your entire family in mind. Providing you with a perfect balance of exciting new experiences like learning to ride, the first introduction to polo as a game, all the way through to playing stick and ball, and even your first family Chukkas with your own team pro! With every aspect professionally catered to the individual family members all learning, playing and then relaxing together in a unique environment that keeps you wanting to come back for more.
You will have exclusive use of our gorgeous and authentic Spanish Finca situated in the heart of the ranch grounds and sleeps up to eight people in comfortable en-suite bedrooms on full board with daily cleaning. Perfect for a large family or two families travelling together. The Finca has a private pool and fabulous dining terrace elegantly set within relaxing gardens. Best of all, the Guesthouse is expertly run by two local cooks who serve up delicious Spanish cuisine such as gazpacho, tortilla, paella, colourful fresh salads and special Argentinian-style Asado BBQ. Together with the onsite concierge team, they take care of all your requirements throughout your stay at the Finca.
We know that, just like skiing, almost everyone who tries polo falls in love with it. There is something appealing for everyone in the family, whether it be the riding, hitting the ball accurately, playing in a team, the speed and adrenaline, the competitiveness (which comes later), or the social scene around the game. It is a phenomenal sport for so many reasons that we know our clients will especially enjoy. Our Learn Together programme is always run by experienced and professional instructors in a safe and controlled environment. It is very hands-on to give you the best start to riding and start to play polo on the first day. Our ponies are well trained and hand-selected to the individual. We can supply all the kit, in some cases children may need to wear their own shoes due to size and comfort.
The Learn Together programme runs Saturday-Saturday throughout July and August and May-October half term. The structure of the programme runs for 5 days (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) and includes the following itinerary:
SATURDAY
Arrival & Welcome to your exclusive Polo Valley Finca
SUNDAY 2hr Polo Experience
MONDAY
30min Riding Lesson + 30 min Swing Techniques + 1hr Polo Lesson (throughout the day)
TUESDAY
1hr Polo Lesson + afternoon 1hr River Ride + Evening Asado which is an optional extra
WEDNESDAY
Rest & Day together as a family
THURSDAY
1hr Polo Lesson + 30min Penalty Shooting + 30min Attack & Defence Skills
FRIDAY
30min Warm-up Session with physio + 1 hr official Beginner Polo Match + 30min debrief of the week
SATURDAY
Departure
*Additional riding lessons, hacks (riding in the countryside), polo lessons, and 1hr chukkas can be arranged subject to availability.
This is a unique family holiday to enjoy together and outside of polo, Sotogrande has so much to entertain you. Whether you wish to keep exploring the Andalusian outback on e-bikes, you want to hire a Mini-Moke for a day’s exploring, or you wish to experience a special Polo Valley glamping evening under the stars, our team has the experience and knowledge to help deliver a seamless itinerary.
Contact us to find out more about our family Learn Together programme.
Our private Swiss chalet apartments and hand-picked hotels offer generous space for extended families to gather together and enjoy a seamless holiday. With total flexibility to design our services around your needs, you can make the most of your festive celebrations and your precious time in the mountains.
We are delighted to share our expertise to help families plan their first skiing experience, ensuring the first steps on snow are a positive experience for everyone.
What is the ideal age for my children to start skiing? What childcare options do you offer for babies and toddlers? What are the most suitable resorts for families? How much ski time can I expect? What will my children experience in your ski programmes? What if I’m a non-skier?
These are all common questions from families who are looking to book their first skiing holiday and are unsure what to expect. From families who are all complete beginners and want to learn together, to parents who are avid skiers and want to pass on their passion to their children, we relish the challenge of finding the perfect solution for all of our clients.
Consider how much time you want together as a family, as well as for your own ski time and make sure you have the right support in place. There are so many services tailored to every need that can be planned in advance. ‘Happy kids have happy parents’… there’s nothing worse than when everyone has to make a big compromise on holiday and if the kids don’t enjoy their holiday it makes the whole trip more challenging. Destress the experience by selecting a suitable resort and trust Powder Byrne with all the logistics. You don’t necessarily need to be in a top named resort. A more gentle introduction for the children with quieter slopes can be a great confidence builder before you progress to buzzier resorts. Be realistic about your objectives for your first ski holiday - get it right, and the kids will be begging you to return again next year and you’ll have succeeded in passing on your passion for a lifetime of memorable skiing!
Most resorts in our portfolio are suitable for firsttime skiers as our services and local team make all the difference, but we particularly recommend the Swiss resorts of Flims, Lenzerheide and Arosa for first-timers thanks to excellent nursery slopes and plenty of accessible blue runs once you get the hang of things. We offer our exclusive programme, Learn in Style, for adult beginners in selected resorts, which delivers a unique instruction programme for small groups of like-minded adults which is very popular.
Children all develop at different speeds, so it is more about finding the perfect age for your child. Some children have natural coordination and are more capable from a young age, others benefit from a gentler start and will develop when the environment is right. Parents know their children best and what they are capable of and there is no ‘perfect age’ in our view. The first experience is crucial though, and for those who are ready at 3 years to take their first tentative steps on the slopes, our carefully designed Yeti Primer programme gives them the ideal start. Over three decades it has been tried, tested and developed by our most demanding clients (the toddlers, of course!).
The first objective of our Yeti programme for 4-9 year olds is for everyone to have fun in a great environment with lots of friends, to feel safe and supported and to learn at their own pace. We don’t identify their time on the slopes as ‘ski school’, as a Yeti they’ll enjoy fun and games throughout the ski day, skiing in a small group of friends, as well as organised activities and supervised supper after skiing back at their hotel. We create a really fun and relaxed environment with lots of encouragement and support so they’re not really aware they are in ski school at all!
The quality of the instruction they receive is guaranteed thanks to small group sizes and the support we provide which allows the instructor to remain focused on the skiing. All our Yeti groups are led by a qualified instructor, but crucial support is also provided by a Yeti assistant who is there to encourage their group in a big brotherly/sisterly way, break out the biscuits when energy needs boosting, and manage the inevitable comfort breaks that can otherwise disrupt the progress of the lesson.
The culmination of the Yeti week is a demonstration on the final morning where Yetis show-off all the new skills they have learned as they hit the race gates to the applause of their proud parents.
Of course, as they progress with their skiing, we ramp it up with more structured technical sessions and strong skiers will be pushed to discover new skills and disciplines as we seek to make them rounded skiers in all conditions and terrain. Mountain awareness and safe skiing is the foundation of SnoZone and PB Ski Academy programme which offer structured group instruction through to teenage years.
We’ve been supporting families travelling with babies and toddlers for decades and our dedicated pb creche service is designed to give parents peace of mind so they can continue to enjoy the sport they love. We adhere to the usual UK standards for childcare and our crèche managers are fully qualified NNEB or equivalent nursery nurses. We’re happy to welcome babies from 6 months and toddlers up to the age of 4 will be kept busy with indoor and outdoor activities between 08:30 and 4pm 6 days a week. Whilst providing a great crèche environment packed with fun and stimulating toys and games is essential, we identify our pre-travel service as perhaps the most critical element in ensuring a seamless service. A ski holiday with very young ones does present its challenges, but none are insurmountable with the right plan and support in place. Our Client Concierge team will provide every detail in advance and arrange for a call with our crèche manager before you travel so you can run through every detail.
We offer a pre-travel purchasing service for all your baby essentials and we’ll have these waiting in your room upon your arrival - one less thing to worry about when packing! We provide all the necessary baby travel seats for transfers, buggies in our crèches, we’ll arrange microwaves/bottle warmers, can liaise with hotels to puree food - in short, everything has been anticipated and our team will be ready to take away all the hassles. Our team are also available for evening babysitting so you can really make the most of your holiday. We also offer a Private Nanny Service in resorts where our pb creche is not operating.
DON’T FORGET IT’S YOUR HOLIDAY TOO AND WE’LL MAKE SURE YOU MAKE THE MOST OF IT
Skiing with Powder Byrne is all about the camaraderie on and off the slopes and making the most of the mountain resort. Our complimentary ski guiding programme for adults creates the perfect environment for parents to ski in small groups with others, hosted by amiable Powder Byrne guides whose job it is to ensure everyone skis at a pace that suits them. Our guides plan the days skiing, organise a beautiful lunch stop, make sure you find the best snow and the quietest slopes, using their local knowledge to enhance your experience. They’ll even carry your skis for you, coordinate shuttles and logistics; their aim is to ensure you spend the maximum time enjoying your skiing. One client once described it as ‘leave your brain at the door’ skiing, which we believe is what a holiday should be all about.
DON’T WORRY IF YOU’RE A NON-SKIER, THERE ARE PLENTY OF MOUNTAIN ACTIVITIES FOR YOU TO ENJOY
We make non-skiers just as welcome! Our Client Concierge team will run through all the options for non-skiers before you travel and our Mountain Host team in your chosen resort will coordinate all your arrangements, from guided winter walks, sleigh rides, to meeting up with skiers for lunch. Some of our properties have amazing Spa facilities and we can coordinate the perfect pampering day. Our driver service is on hand throughout the day so non-skiers can explore neighbouring villages or resorts, or we can arrange trips to local towns for shopping or sight-seeing.
We see an increasing number of clients travelling with multi-generations and our private apartments in Arosa are particularly popular as they give larger families more privacy, lots of space, multiple bedrooms all with ensuite facilities. Big Family Christmas celebrations have always been a tradition at Powder Byrne and we’ll liaise with our clients to arrange a bespoke festive celebration which is always a hit with kids and grandparents alike.
As parents of kids growing up with so many distractions and increasing pressures around us all, we’re convinced that family holidays are taking on an even greater significance to ensure everyone can press the pause button. Creating memories together away from it all and making time for each other without screens and distractions is becoming a luxury commodity. There are so many options out there, but also lots of obstacles to avoid along the way. Taking the hassle out of the planning and preparation and using our experience to ensure things run smoothly is what our clients trust us with - so if you need a bit of help with that then we’d love to share some ideas.
We receive interest from skiers to secure their arrangements throughout the year and in some cases clients books their holiday plans more than 12 months in advance to ensure they get the particular accommodation they want. In our view, it’s never too early to start the conversation, allowing our Travel Consultants to recommend the widest choice of suitable options. Booking last minute restricts you to only those options that are left, as well as invariably higher prices for flights, so if you want to secure the best value we recommend booking your skiing before the end of the summer holidays as a rule of thumb.
We’re ready to share our passion and our expertise to make your first skiing holiday with Powder Byrne an experience you will never forget!
We’re now taking bookings for Festive and New Year skiing for next season.
It’s never too early to start discussing your options for February half term and we will be delighted to advise on the best solutions for school holiday skiing over the Easter break.
Everything’s possible with Powder Byrne.
Powder Byrne has always been committed to delivering programmes for young skiers of all ages and abilities. Our award-winning programmes have given a generation of skiers the bug, and it’s wonderful to see some of our earliest Yetis now returning with their own families many years later to start their next chapter.
Yeti Primer is designed to allow your toddlers to experience those first exciting steps on skis. It offers a gentle introduction to skiing and the perfect preparation for our Yeti programme. With two hours of instructor-led fun on the nursery slopes in the morning, the children will be taken back to your hotel by our staff for lunch, followed by an afternoon in our pb creche. The weekly programme is fully supervised by our experienced staff at all times.
We know that learning to ski can be tiring and getting to grips with new equipment can be daunting, which is why our staff join with qualified instructors on the slopes to ensure your little ones get the most from their first ski experience. With the afternoon spent in our pb creche there is plenty of time for more fun and games, as well as quiet time for weary skiers.
Yeti Primer is the ultimate introduction to skiing for active pre-schoolers. Feedback from our clients confirms that the balance of time on the slopes and time in the creche works so well. However, there is flexibility to add further private instruction in the afternoon on selected days for eager powder hounds. We’ll ensure they take to the new sport and love their first experience on skis, essential for building confidence for future trips and a great preparation for joining older Yetis the following season.
Yeti Primer operates six days a week during selected school holiday weeks, with ski instruction on five mornings. The rest of the time is spent supervised in our pb creche which is open between 08:30 and 4PM (4.30PM during Easter holidays) six days a week.
Your kids are guaranteed to love the Yeti programme, our fun and dedicated environment for kids aged 4 to 9 years. Whether they are complete beginners, have mastered the basics or are progressing their technique, we will ensure they have plenty of fun, whilst at the same time developing their skills through the week.
Our fully trained Yeti teams coordinate the day from the moment the kids leave the boot room, so you can be confident they are in safe hands until we deliver them back to your hotel, smiling and happy at the end of each day.
We offer the best adult:child ratios on the mountain for group ski instruction, helping your children develop faster, building confidence in an encouraging environment. Our staff work in tandem with professional instructors and ensure every child is placed in the appropriate ski group and gets the support they need whilst on the slopes.
They also supervise nutritious lunches on the mountain, early suppers in your hotel and popular DVD evenings. We ensure it’s the perfect environment to make new friends and enjoy skiing, where safety is always at the very top of our agenda.
Our bespoke Yeti grading system operates across all of our resorts allowing you to follow their progress over successive seasons in whichever of our resorts you choose to travel. We aim to ensure each child enjoys their time on the mountain in a fun atmosphere (where they don’t even realise they are learning!) and ultimately instill in them a love for skiing.
Yeti operates five days a week between 9am and 4pm with one free day to ski as a family mid-week. It includes supervised lunch on the mountain, a supervised DVD evening on two evenings a week and an early supervised supper throughout the week in your hotel. We also offer a babysitting service - just let us know before you travel or log onto MyPB.
Visit our website for more information and to view films about our unique childrens’ programmes.
Join us for adrenaline-fuelled, full of non-stop action! Our unique programme welcomes kids who can ski confidently on red runs who want to challenge themselves by developing new skills, learning new tricks, and taking their skiing to the next level. This is the ultimate ski programme for red run confident skiers, offering a fun experience on the slopes, lots of laughs with our SnoZone team, and evening activities including ice skating and pizza nights.
We’ll help develop new skills and confidence as well as make sure everyone has lots of fun with new friends. Your kids will be taken through advanced techniques for on and off piste, bumps and freeride skiing, so they really start to develop the basic skills they gained in Yetis. The programme is exclusive to Powder Byrne clients and runs on five days of the week between 8:30am and 4pm, with one free day to ski with the family mid-week. We provide each SnoZoner with a black Powder Byrne ski helmet to ensure safety and identification on the mountain. We also provide a selection of fun and useful holiday gifts.
Our Ski Academy is structured to provide a comprehensive programme covering several different styles of skiing, aiming to create confident skiers across multiple ski disciplines. The programme is tailored to the needs of the group, ensuring that participants get the most out of their week. The week begins with a thorough skiing assessment in order to produce a tailored development plan for each skier.
The first half of the week focuses on safe skiing at speed, concentrating on carving and racing techniques, including negotiating gates and skier cross. There is also an introduction to freestyle where skis will be changed to twin tips and the group will have the opportunity to try out some of the freeride terrain available in your resort. Freestyle tuition involves how to execute safe tricks and jumps in the snow park and pipes.Depending on weather conditions, toward the end of the week the group will change to wide skis and head off piste to learn how to adjust their skiing to powder and back country conditions. The programme is designed for confident black run skiers aged 14 to 17, with a maximum of eight teens in a group
It’s never too late to learn to ski and our unique SnoZone Beginners programme ensures that older kids learn with children of their own age, at the right pace. Our qualified ski instructors lead small groups that are designed to build confidence and bring on the children’s skills quickly. Our approach enables your 10 to 14 year olds to learn to ski with peers of the same ability, while also giving them the chance to spend time with other friends in SnoZone during supervised evening activities.
PB TEENAGE SKI GUIDING 16 - 19 years
We’re often asked by parents of older teens for a less intensive guiding programme where skiers who are red run confident can join up together with a guide and enjoy a sociable group atmosphere - and more importantly, where they don’t need to ski with their parents!
We’re delighted to launch our new PB Teenage Guiding programme, hosted by a local guide, so they can still benefit from their local knowledge, and parents have the peace of mind that they are in capable hands. Skiers must be a minimum of red run confident and they will be welcome to meet up with their ski friends at 2 accompanied evening activities during the week.
All our ski programmes are available exclusively to Powder Byrne clients and operate over selected holiday weeks in selected resorts. Contact us to find out the best options to suit your family’s needs.
Space and privacy are key elements of a holiday for many of our clients. Stay at one of our hand-picked private properties and you can enjoy exceptional service in your very own luxurious home-away-from-home.
Powder Byrne’s luxury chalet apartments in Arosa have been designed, finished and furnished to the highest levels by their owners and each one has its own style and unique features. Original artworks, sumptuous furnishings, cosy living spaces filled with alpine charm await you. For anyone considering a holiday where space and privacy is higher on the agenda than normal, our portfolio of private properties, in conjunction with our dedficated resort services, really come into their own.
A new and exciting innovation using the latest 3D video imaging technology has allowed us to produce walk- through property plans which show you the real detail of the amenities, accommodation and interior style of each of our properties. It’s great for visualising the space and gives you added peace of mind before you confirm your booking. If you want to set your own agenda on holiday without the need to adhere to someone else’s timeframe then a private apartment is just for you. In winter you’ll enjoy all the added benefits of our resort service, complimentary shuttle and ski guiding services for adults, and exclusive childrens’ ski programmes for your children. For infants, there’s our pb crèche or we can arrange a private nanny to come to your apartment and look after your babies whilst you take to the slopes.
Our properties are perfect for winter skiing holidays but are also available for rentals during spring, summer and autumn months. If you are considering a different style of holiday escape where you can get away from it all and explore the great outdoors then these properties offer the perfect base.
In winter, you are in control of the services you need from Powder Byrne, and if that means a fully contactless experience in the apartment then we will ensure that we deliver our service, cleaning and any food deliveries or meal preparation whilst you are out on the slopes, so you can come back to the smell of fresh cakes and brownies and relax from the moment you return.
We’ll ensure you have everything you need to tuck yourselves away for cosy family time with your fire roaring, large entertaining spaces for big family meals, all modern conveniences and media to flop in front of your favourite film, or there’s the sauna and steam room which you can reserve for yourselves to switch off after your day on the slopes.
If your idea of a holiday is not having to think about cooking meals for your family then you can leave that to us too. Our hand-picked Swiss Cooks are experienced chefs who offer a private chef service, designing and preparing bespoke menu plans for you and your party before you travel.
Because some of our private properties offer additional bedrooms and bunk rooms, why not bring the extended family or share with friends? By using all the accommodation in our private properties (some sleeping 10+ in full beds) you’ll enjoy the very best value for money and are guaranteed to have a wonderfully relaxing time in your new Alpine home from home.
Contact us today to discuss the options available to you in our portfolio and take a 3D tour with our new walk-through viewing solution.
Our courses provide intensive, multi-discipline, all-round snowsports tuition resulting in accredited instructor qualifications and unique experience for your CV. But that’t not all…..
Do you know anyone considering a rewarding challenge in the mountains that will provide them with great skills and prospects for future work in the Alps?
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We love to hear our clients’ stories and see their snaps; check out more at stories.powderbyrne.com
Tintagel House, 92 Albert Embankment London SE1 7TY +44(0)20 8246 5300 enquiries@powderbyrne.com powderbyrne.com
