Richmond Holidays Winter 2017/18 Brochure

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Welcome Richmond’s chalets are such special places for me: last March, as I stood on the balcony, gazing up to the stars and majestic mountain peaks, praise and thankfulness to our Creator simply overflowed from my heart. It is a great delight for me, therefore, to be able to introduce Richmond’s 2017-18 ski programme to you, here in our latest winter brochure.

This season, we are thrilled to welcome you back to our two Richmond-exclusive chalets, staffed by our professional Christian teams. Whether travelling solo, as a couple, with family or friends, our staff will ensure you have an exceptional holiday, with fellowship and community at the heart of it all.

This community of Richmond friends has truly been a blessing to me on a personal level this year. I am so grateful to all those who shared kinds words of encouragement and wisdom with me over these last months, during which my beautiful fiancée Becky became my wife!

Looking forward, we at Richmond are so excited to see all that this coming season holds. With incredible snow-sure skiing in the heart of the world’s largest ski resort, we can’t wait to be back on the slopes and hope to see you there!

Adam Playfair, Managing Director

Contents 02 Testimonials 03 What’s Included 04 About The Resort 05 Non-Skier Activities 06 Chalet des Neiges, Reberty 08 Chalet Elise, Bettaix 10 Ministry 11 Children 11 Cuisine 12 Ski Extras 13 Getting There 14 Summer Holidays 16 Dates & Prices 17 How To Book

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Testimonials

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Rachel

Helen

Chalet Elise, FEB 2017

Chalet De Neiges, MAR 2017

“We loved our holiday. Right from the start we felt very welcomed and completely at home. The staff were awesome and the other chalet guests immediately felt like extended family.

I would very much recommend this holiday and look forward to booking again with Richmond in the future.”

“The staff are always excellent, but this year’s team were exceptional. I was very impressed that they made the effort to learn the names of guests, and managed that within a few days. The location of Chalet des Neiges is so excellent and having two hot tubs outside was a real bonus. The ministry leaders were very attentive and the food was superb.

Overall, a fantastic week - thank you!”

Rosie & Jonathan Chalet Elise, JAN 2017 “I have genuinely never felt so loved, valued and cared for. The staff gave of themselves and more. Everyone worked as a team with high spirits and enthusiasm. This led to a superb atmosphere which made the holiday so enjoyable and memorable. Highly recommended. Also, the team in the UK office were superb, I really valued their helpfulness and clarity over the phone.”

Your Holiday Includes: Inspiring daily reflections, worship and teaching from your Richmond Ministry Leader Exclusive Richmond occupancy of all chalets Delicious breakfasts, afternoon tea and three course evening meals with complimentary wine Drinks and canapé reception upon arrival Free Wi-Fi access throughout the chalets Complimentary tea and coffee all day Caring and professional Richmond staff in the office and our resorts

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About The Resort Our two chalets are set in the heart of The Three Valleys.

This ski resort is the world’s largest, with over 600km of interconnected ski runs that link together the resorts of Val Thorens, Les Menuires, Meribel and Courchevel. With so many slopes, there is something to suit any skiing ability and preference. Whether you have never skied before, enjoy cruising the blues and reds, or you are looking for an adrenaline pumping couloir, all this and more can be found in The Three Valleys. In addition to the huge variety of pistes, the high altitude guarantees great skiing throughout the season.

The Three Valleys Highlights 85% of the ski area is situated above 1,800m The maximum skiing altitude is 3,230m (minimum skiing altitude is 1,300m) 6 glaciers and 25 accessible summits, 10 of which are over 2,500m 169 high performance modern ski lifts 321 Alpine ski runs: 51 green, 132 blue, 106 red, 32 black The Three Valleys are home to 8 internationally renowned ski resorts

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Non-Skier Activities Aside from skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during your Richmond holiday. Each of our chalets have two saunas and two glorious outside hot tubs, which look out onto the Alps. Additionally, our comfortable lounges, where complimentary tea and coffee is served throughout the day, offer great spaces to relax, read a book, and enjoy the ambience of being in the mountains.

A number of the lifts can be used by pedestrians. These lifts take you further up the mountain, where you can see more stunning views over the valley. We arrange daily lunch meets so you can join the skiers in the group for a delicious lunch, waffle or vin chaud! Buses can take you to the local towns of Les Menuires, Saint Martin or Val Thorens. Or, if you fancy trying out a different alpine sport, then cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing is available. “The location is superb, being ski-in ski-out in the best ski area in Europe, and was a vital factor in why I booked. The staff were all really lovely and the chalet felt like a home. I love the Christian ethos of the holidays.

- Elizabeth, February 2017 - Chalet des Neiges

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Chalet des Neiges, Reberty Three Valleys Resort, France Saturday Arrivals: 16th December 2017 - 21st April 2018 Chalet des Neiges is perfectly positioned in Reberty Village, beside a blue grade ski slope and opposite an ESF ski school meet-point. The chalet’s ski-in ski-out location makes it a firm favourite for many, as does the superb, uninterrupted view of the mountains that can be enjoyed from the dining room, the lounge and a number of the bedrooms.

The chalet’s fourteen Standard and Premium bedrooms are traditionally decorated, all with comfortable beds and stylish ensuites. As well as being more spacious and boasting great views, a number of our Premium rooms open out onto decking and the outside hot tubs. There are plenty of room options, whether you are traveling on your own, with your family, in a group, or as a couple.

“The holiday was amazing - great skiing and people. Reberty is a fantastic location.

The staff were very approachable and helpful. The ministry leader was outstanding and we made new friends.”

- Neil, February 2017 – Chalet des Neiges

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After a day on the mountains, relax in the chalet’s saunas and bubbling hot tubs, or warm up in the spacious and comfortable lounge, sitting by the crackling log fire with a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake. Our staff team are always on hand to ensure you have the best holiday, whether you want advice on where to ski the next day, or an extra pillow!

Each evening throughout your holiday, following a time of inspirational ministry, canapés are served ahead of a delicious three course meal with complimentary red and white wine.

During the meal, share stories of your day and enjoy great fellowship together before joining some of the Richmond team in the lounge for an after-dinner game.

Highlights Chalet des Neiges is situated at an altitude of 2,000m Distance to the piste: just a couple of metres!

Suitable for beginners: an ESF ski school is opposite the chalet A frequent free bus runs from just outside Reberty village to Les Meniures *New!* Premium Week starting 3rd February, including ski guiding led by a local instructor and different wines selected for each course of dinner throughout the week

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Chalet Elise, Le Bettaix Three Valleys Resort, France Saturday Arrivals: 16th December 2017 - 21st April 2018 Chalet Elise is nestled in the charming Bettaix village. This typically French village is very peaceful and has the gentle Doron river winding through the middle. From the chalet, there is easy access to the fantastic ski resort of The Three Valleys; the lift is only a few minutes’ walk from the boot room and will take you to Les Menuires.

The chalet is made up of fourteen Standard and Premium bedrooms. Chalet Elise’s Premium rooms even have their own Jacuzzi bath ensuites for that extra level of luxury!

“We loved this past week at Chalet Elise. The managers were excellent, so welcoming and warm in their approach to everyone in the chalet. The hot tubs were so appreciated to soothe those aching muscles.

It was a special week and we were made to feel right at home.”

- Sue, March 2017 – Chalet Elise

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At the heart of the chalet you will find the main lounge, with comfy sofas around an open fireplace. The space is perfect for socialising, the daily times of ministry and our after-dinner games that the team host each night. The chalet has two lounges: the main lounge with wonderful views and a smaller one where you can enjoy a game of table football.

Our friendly staff team will make sure that you have a fantastic holiday - from providing a hearty breakfast to set you up for the day, to helping you select a ski route, then welcoming you back each afternoon with a smile and a slice of cake. Chalet Elise has two saunas and hot tubs that are positioned on the outside balcony, as well as sun loungers where you can enjoy the peace and tranquility looking out onto the mountains.

Highlights The chalet is situated at an altitude of 1,600m Distance to the lift: 2 minute walk to the ‘Le Bettex’ ski lift Walk along the Doron river in the day to Saint Martin, or take a stroll after dinner Daily housekeeping with fresh towels provided Ski/Board and boot storage with boot heaters in the chalet Ski equipment is delivered, fitted and collected from the Chalet Elise bootroom when pre-booked with Richmond

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Ministry We understand that a holiday can often be used as a time to get away from the demands and stresses of everyday life, but we believe that one thing a holiday doesn’t have to be is a break from our relationship with God. In fact, we believe a time away of fun and relaxation is a perfect opportunity to grow deeper with our awesome, loving God in the setting of His beautiful creation.

We have a dedicated ministry leader in the resort each week running the ministry sessions. They will also be available to chat and pray with you during your holiday.

Each day in the resort we hold optional times of prayer, praise and Bible-teaching. This includes a prayer meeting each morning with a short devotional and then, later in the evening, an informal meeting before dinner.

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“A Richmond holiday is a God-given opportunity to get a fresh perspective on our life. As ministry pastors for the past 6 seasons, it has been a real privilege to spend time with guests - often in the sun, or on the ski slopes, or in our cosy chalets - to worship God, listen to what God wants to say to us through His Word, and to talk and pray together.

We look forward to seeing you with us next season!”

- Ian & Jan Harrison, Richmond Ministry Leaders

Children Are you bringing children with you? Take a look at what Richmond can offer during the main school holidays: Child Supervision: Fancy a few extra hours on the slopes?

Richmond staff can take your children aged 4-12 yrs to/from ski school, give them lunch and entertain them until 14:00.

Children’s Tea: A child-friendly menu available each evening, served before ministry for children aged 2-12 yrs.

Children’s Ministry: We offer children’s ministry for those aged 6-12 yrs, led by a member of the Richmond team.

Cuisine One of the highlights of any ski holiday is coming back after a day on the mountain and enjoying delicious food prepared by our fantastic chefs.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast, starting the day with a continental buffet including fresh fruit, croissants, and hot options.

Our afternoon tea is a welcome treat and includes homemade cakes, French baguettes and selection of jams.

Following canapés, enjoy a wonderful three-course meal with complimentary wine and juice. Our menu incorporates local produce and local dishes such as tartiflette.

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Ski Extras Lift Passes Avoid queues in resort! Add a Three Valleys lift pass to your booking before departure so that it will be waiting for you on arrival. There are reduced rates available for children (under twelve) and seniors (over sixty-five).

Equipment Hire Ski and snowboard hire can be organised through Richmond. With four grades of equipment, we can ensure you have the right kit and can advise if needed. We take your measurements in advance to ensure less time getting fitted and more time on the slopes!

Ski and Snowboard Lessons Richmond can organise 6-day group lessons at your required level with the ESF ski school starting from age three. We recommend you book early, especially in highseason weeks, to avoid disappointment.

All ski extras must be added onto bookings a minimum of three weeks before departure. Full details of all these, including prices, are available on our website: www.richmond-holidays.com/ski

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Getting There Flights Chambery Airport is the closest to our chalets and Richmond operates return transfers available exclusively to our guests for £79 per person. There are also numerous flights from the UK to Lyon, Geneva and Grenoble airports, all of which are served by a range of public and private transfer operators. Richmond can offer early morning transfers from Les Menuires coach station to Reberty or Le Bettaix for £10 per person each way.

Eurostar Train Board the Eurostar train at Ashford or St Pancras then travel directly to Moutiers, France, at the base of The Three Valleys. Travel overnight for eight full days of skiing, or catch the daytime service for a great view of the French countryside. The Richmond transfer from Moutiers station is £45 return per person and includes a complimentary breakfast for the early morning arrivals.

Self-drive On arriving in Calais, France, it is approximately a 600mile, nine-hour drive to our chalets. There is underground parking at Chalet des Neiges and free parking in both Reberty Village and Le Bettaix. Driving directions are available to download from our website.

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Summer Holidays What about an incredible summer holiday with Richmond? We have two fantastic locations, one hotel resort on the beautiful Greek island of Samos and one alpine chalet in the stunning French mountains. Find out a little bit more below - or look on our website for further information: www.richmond-holidays.com/summer

Samos Thursday Arrivals: 18 May to 12 October 2017 Our resort on the stunning island of Samos is just metres from the glistening aquamarine Aegean Sea. The family-run hotel has its own large swimming pool with sun loungers as well as a poolside taverna and terrace overlooking the sea.

Richmond runs its own RYA watersports centre with dinghy sailing, windsurfing, stand up paddle boarding and kayaking.

We also have tennis courts and bikes that are available to use each day.

There is so much on offer, whether you are hoping to learn a new skill or practise a hobby. Throughout the summer, there are themed weeks that have a particular focus on walking, painting, photography and more.

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Reberty Saturday Arrivals: 01 July to 26 August 2017 Our chalet in Reberty Village looks out onto the snow-capped mountains and is positioned beside a meadow full of alpine flowers. From the chalet, the mountains are easily accessible by chair lift, mountain trails, or a bit of both!

Enjoy a range of mountain activities including white water rafting, paragliding, mountain biking, and via ferrata. In addition, there are great times of fellowship with Richmond-led walks, a weekly BBQ, and daily times of Bible-led ministry.

The chalet is a great base where you can relax and look out onto the incredible mountain ranges from our bubbling hot tub or the comfortable lounges.

“What a fantastic holiday!! It was great to have such a wide range of activities to choose from, there was never a dull moment! All the staff were amazing and made us feel so welcome. I came home feeling completely relaxed and refreshed. Big thank you to everyone for a great holiday.�

Rachel - June 2016 - Samos

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Dates & Prices Chalet Elise Saturday Chalet des Neiges Arrival Day Prices pppw starting from: (£) Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

16

696

Extra Information

557

23

912

730

30

815

652

Christmas New Year

06

688

551

20s & 30s Week in Reberty 30s, 40s & 50s Week in Reberty

13

688

551

20

688

551

27

716

559

03

861

597

Premium Week in Reberty

10

1,023

818

Half Term

17

787

630

24

752

602

03

714

571

10

694

555

17

680

544

24

665

532

31

829

663

Easter Sunday

07

729

583

Easter Holidays

14

589

519

Under 12s discount: half price accommodation, if in third or fourth bed of a room Under 18s discount: £70 discount per week, if in third or fourth bed of a room Privacy Supplement: £238 per week, for use of an under occupied room Please see our website for further supplements and discounts

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Prices based on two people sharing a Standard room for a seven night holiday These prices are correct at time of printing and subject to change without notice

How To Book Speak to a friendly Holiday Consultant: 020 3004 2661 Email: info@richmond-holidays.com Office hours: Mon-Fri 09:00-17:30 & Sat 09:30-12:30

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Choose Your Destination

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Travel Arrangements

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Confirm Your Holiday

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Financial Protection

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Complete Your Booking

Browse the brochure or go to our website for more information and photos of our resorts. Our friendly and knowledgeable Holiday Consultants are just a phone call away if you need any help or advice.

We can book your flights to Samos as part of the ATOL-bonded packages we offer.

Alternatively, speak to us for advice on travel arrangements, transfers or driving directions.

Call or email our Holiday Consultants who can answer any questions and book your holiday with you.

All Richmond holidays are 100% financially protected through our membership of the Travel Trust Association (U790X). A deposit is required to secure your booking and the balance is due 10 weeks before departure.

All Richmond flight packages are ATOL-protected (T7533).

Review your booking, check or add your party’s personal information, and pay the balance online or over the phone.

Full Booking Terms & Conditions are available online at www.richmond-holidays.com

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020 3004 2661 info@richmond-holidays.com Richmond Travel International Limited 17 Burton Road Poole Dorset BH13 6DT