Ski Independence Brochure - Winter 19|20

WINTER 2019|2020

A U S T R I A • C A N A D A • F R A N C E • I TA LY • J A PA N • S W I T Z E R L A N D • U S A

Find your next

winter getaway From heli-skiing in the highlands of Canada, to cruising the vast interconnected valleys of Europe, we have the perfect holiday for you. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> All the information you need

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we’re delighted to welcome you to our brochure for Winter 2019/20. Showcasing the very best in tailor-made ski holidays and with a series of articles written by our expert Ski Specialists, you’re sure to find inspiration for your next winter escape. We hope you enjoy the new brochure and we look forward to making your ski dreams a reality for the coming season.

CANADA

Solitude

SWITZERLAND

Banff

24

Squaw Valley

Saas Fee

Big White

34

Steamboat

Verbier

94

Jasper

28

Sun Valley

Villars

98

Lake Louise

26

Winter Park

Zermatt

96

Panorama

38

Revelstoke

36

FRANCE

Sun Peaks

32

Three Valleys

60

Klosters

Vancouver

20

Portes du Soleil

66

St Moritz

Whistler

14

Grand Massif

78

Fernie

Alpe d’Huez

86

Kicking Horse

Avoriaz

68

The Dolomites

Silver Star

Chamonix

88

Madonna di Campiglio 102

Tremblant USA

100

Andermatt Gstaad

ITALY 102

Courchevel

65

Pinzolo

102

Flaine

81

San Cassiano

102

La Clusaz

90

La Thuile

Aspen Snowmass

46

Les Arcs

76

Breckenridge

42

Megève

84

AUSTRIA

Jackson Hole

52

Méribel

64

Arlberg

104

Park City

50

Morzine

69

Lech

104

Vail

44

Samoëns

80

St Anton

104

Tignes

74

Beaver Creek Big Sky

Val d’Isère

72

JAPAN

Copper

Val Thorens

62

Niseko

Deer Valley

Les Carroz

Heavenly

Les Gets

Killington

Montgenèvre

Mammoth

Peisey Vallandry

Details on the resorts highlighted in BLUE can be found on our website at www.ski-i.com

Snowbird

Need some inspiration to help you choose your next ski destination? Check out the series of articles written by our expert Ski Specialists precisely for this purpose: Your North American Travel Guide (page 10) • The Best Snow in North America (page 22) The Best Terrain in North America (page 30) • Ski Essentials in North America (page 40) Multi-centre Holidays in North America (page 48) • Your European Travel Guide (page 54) The Biggest Ski Areas in Europe (page 58) • The Best Snow Sure Destinations in Europe (page 70) Europe’s Luxury Hotels (page 82) • The Best Family Friendly Destinations in Europe (page 92)

Main image: Lech, a winter paradise.

Cover image: Ski to Les Diablerets from Villars.

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Giving you

the full picture Everyone has something different they look for in a ski resort, but with over 60 featured on our website we like to think we’ve got all the bases covered. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Choosing the right country for you

We travel far and wide to bring you the best ski experiences. Spread across three continents, we’ve carefully selected a varied choice of over 60 stunning destinations to suit every ability, from complete beginners to expert skiers and boarders.

W

ith seven countries to choose from, here’s a quick overview of the best

each has to offer.

USA Skiing in America is all about great snow, unbeatable service and awe-inspiring scenery.

The USA is a vast country whose landscapes transform from East to West Coast – a diversity we reflect in our featured ski resorts.

Switzerland Canada

For picture-perfect resorts, traditional style and a

One of the world’s favourite winter playgrounds,

wonderfully chic ambiance, it has to be

Canada is famous for enviable snow, exceptional

Switzerland. Our Swiss ski resorts are full of

facilities and staggering scenery. It’s also home

charm, luxury and spectacular mountain vistas,

to possibly the most famous ski resort out there:

with plenty of elegant boutiques, restaurants and

the legendary Whistler.

bars to keep even non-skiers entertained.

France

Austria

With a huge variety of world-class ski resorts

Famed for its picturesque resorts, Austria offers

set in stunning alpine locations, it comes as little

everything from buzzing après-ski to cosy

surprise that France is the most popular country

chalets. It’s also where you’ll find some of the

in the world for British skiers and snowboarders.

most challenging pistes in the world, making it a

And with some of the shortest journey times of

favourite option among serious skiers and riders

all our destinations, travelling there’s a breeze.

looking to tackle thrilling black runs.

Italy

Japan

A favourite destination among foodies, Italy

Drawing in skiers and snowboarders dreaming

offers scenic skiing in the mighty Dolomites with

of waist-deep powder from across the globe,

a joyous side order of incredible gastronomy.

Japan is an unforgettable ski destination. Not

Families are welcomed warmly, making it a

only does it boast some of the best snowfall in

popular choice for skiers and boarders with

the world (around 50 feet every winter), Japan’s

young children.

vibrant culture also makes your time away from the slopes truly memorable.

For a comprehensive guide to all the resorts we feature, please visit our website: www.ski-i.com.

Main image: Alpe d’Huez by night.

Above: Zermatt and the unmistakable Matterhorn.

5

Trust the

ski experts As ski holiday specialists with years of experience, we’ll plan every detail of your trip to ensure you have the best mountain experience out there. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Ski holidays tailor made for you

This is a special year for Ski Independence, as we celebrate our 25th year in business. We’re proud to have created bespoke ski holidays for countless happy clients over the years, going from strength to strength to become the UK’s leading independent ski tour operator.

N

ow into our third generation as a familyrun business, we have gained a highly

respected reputation both within the industry and with our clients, many of whom return to book with us year after year.

We’re delighted to celebrate our 25th ski season and I’d like to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to each and every one of you who has travelled with us over the years. We all have our vision of our perfect ski holiday and with our 25 years of experience, we’ve developed the expertise to make yours happen.

Michael Bennet Managing Director

Book with confidence Not only do we offer fantastic service, we’re also confident we offer excellent value for money.

Over the last 25 years, we’ve forged strong relationships with our airline, resort and lodging partners, allowing us to offer you the best offers and pricing.

Every holiday we provide is fully protected

Tailor-made

by either ATOL or ABTA bonding, ensuring your

We don’t sell off-the-shelf holidays at Ski

holiday payments are 100% financially protected

Independence. Instead, we create 100% tailor-

and allowing you to travel with complete peace

made itineraries using our unparalleled

of mind.

expertise to create your perfect ski holiday. The beauty of building a holiday this way is that you have so much more choice and flexibility to shape the final package your way. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We listen to your requirements, offer advice, provide options to match your needs and then fine tune the details until you’re completely happy.

Main image: Chalet Skadi, Val d’Isere.

Above: Hotel W, Verbier.

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Book with the

winning team Our team is made up of industry-leading specialists, all with a wealth of ďŹ rst-hand experience and unrivalled knowledge. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> We’re here to help

Our philosophy at Ski Independence is to provide the very best personalised service based on first-hand experience. Our Ski Specialists are on hand throughout the entire process, from your first enquiry to the moment your return home.

W

hatever type of winter sports holiday

Meet the team

you’re dreaming of, our team will go

You’ll see below how many of our featured

above and beyond to accommodate your unique

resorts each member of our team has visited.

requests and requirements.

There’s nothing they like more than talking to you about your plans for a future ski trip, so

Unrivalled local knowledge

why not call us on 0131 243 8097?

Every element of our ski product has been tried

We are with you every step of the way to

and tested by us. This in-depth local knowledge

ensure your holiday booking process is a stress-

and experience allows us to make personalised

free experience. It’s this individual attention that

recommendations for your trip, whether it’s a

makes our ski holidays a cut above the rest, and

fantastic mountain restaurant or an unmissable

happily, our glowing client testimonials certainly

run with spectacular views.

back that up.

Adam

Aodhan

Catherine

Craig

Daria

SKI SPECIALIST 15 RESORTS

SENIOR SKI SPECIALIST 17 RESORTS

PRODUCT MANAGER

SKI SPECIALIST

PRODUCT SUPPORT

21 RESORTS

29 RESORTS

3 RESORTS

Gareth

Iona

Karen

Karen

Magda

SALES MANAGER 45 RESORTS

SKI SPECIALIST

SENIOR SKI SPECIALIST

15 RESORTS

49 RESORTS

SKI SPECIALIST 17 RESORTS

SKI SPECIALIST 13 RESORTS

Michael

Morven

Nick

Pete

Rebekah

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SKI SPECIALIST 23 RESORTS

PRODUCT MANAGER 42 RESORTS

OVERSEAS OPERATIONS MANAGER 34 RESORTS

MARKETING EXECUTIVE 12 RESORTS

29 RESORTS

Pete testing the powder in Jackson Hole.

9

Start planning your

North American adventure

Flying to the USA and Canada has never been easier and our experienced Ski Specialists are here are here to help you navigate every step of the way to your tailor-made adventure. >>

Breckenridge, USA

12

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Your travel guide to North America

Our team of Ski Specialists all have years of personal experience travelling to North America. They are able to advise you precisely and honestly on all aspects of travelling, and strive to get the small details correct so you don’t have to worry about them.

O

ur tailor-made philosophy means you have

economy, premium economy and business.

the flexibility to fly from a convenient local

British Airways offer daily direct flights from

airport on any day of the week to the ski

Heathrow to Montreal, Vancouver, Denver, San

destination of your choice (subject to airline

Francisco and Los Angeles (and seasonally to

schedules and availability). We know what works,

Calgary), with onwards connections to a variety

and perhaps more importantly what won’t work

of smaller US destinations with partner airline,

and can advise you accordingly. We are able to

American Airlines. BA feature a three cabin

cope with complex travel arrangements with

service on all flights: economy, premium

members of your group travelling from different

economy and business, and on selected routes

airports, on different days or even different

also offer the ultimate in luxury – First Class.

Transfers Getting you seamlessly from your arrival airport to your ski accommodation is our goal. We offer a variety of door-to-door transfer options from cost-effective shared scheduled shuttle service to a range of private transfer options including Sedans, Mercedes Sprinter Vans and SUVs. We also offer transfers between resorts, making countries. We will advise you on all the pre-

certain multi-centre itineraries easy to achieve.

flight essentials including mandatory eTA and ESTA requirements, passports, airport parking, baggage allowances, check-in procedures, seating, special assistance, meals and lounges – it’s what we do, and strive to do well.

Once you arrive in the USA or Canada we then have a comprehensive range of airport to resort transfers and self-drive car rental options available and we’ll steer you towards the best solution for your requirements.

Flights We sell flights with all transatlantic carriers but our most popular airlines are Air Canada and British Airways, as they fly daily to the vast majority of our featured destinations. Our principal UK departure airport is London Heathrow, but we have a large selection of domestic feeder flights which connect mostly via London.

Air Canada operates daily direct flights from Heathrow to Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver, with onward connections to Kelowna and Kamloops and features a three cabin service:

The Arrabelle in Vail’s Lionshead village is the epitome of luxury mountain living.

The breathtaking scenery and legendary skiing of Jackson Hole.

Insider knowledge is key and we know from personal experience which of our properties offer the best location, facilities and amenities to match your requirements and budget.

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Our team’s Top 5 for…

Luxury Four Seasons Resort Whistler The Arrabelle Vail Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch Beaver Creek

The Little Nell Aspen Fairmont Banff Springs

Service Limelight Hotel Aspen Crystal Lodge Whistler Four Seasons Resort Whistler Fairmont Chateau Whistler Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler

Facilities Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort at Squaw Creek Squaw Valley Fairmont Banff Springs Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch Beaver Creek

The Fairmont Banff Springs appears in our team’s Top 5 in several categories.

Grand Summit Hotel Park City

Wellness

Accommodation

Fairmont Banff Springs Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Four Seasons Resort Whistler Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Hotel Talisa Vail

The right ingredients for the perfect holiday aren’t the same for everyone. All of our carefully selected hotels, condominiums and private homes offer something different. We have visited all of our featured properties and

Food & Drink Fairmont Banff Springs Post Hotel Lake Louise Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Little Nell Aspen Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Slopeside Fairmont Chateau Whistler Sun Peaks Grand Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Beaver Run Resort Breckenridge Panorama Upper Village Premium Condominiums

Families Westin Whistler Resort & Spa Panorama Condos Sundance Resort Big White The Gant Aspen Delta Whistler Village Suites

Quirky Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler Mountain Modern Jackson Hole The Sebastian Vail The Wort Hotel Jackson Hole Moose Hotel & Suites Banff

Overall Experience Fairmont Chateau Whistler Sun Peaks Grand Fairmont Banff Springs Westin Whistler Resort & Spa Moose Hotel & Suites Banff

constantly review, evolve and refine our comprehensive product range.

Insider knowledge is key and we know from

Car hire

personal experience which of our properties

Having a self-drive vehicle really gives you the

offer the best location, facilities and amenities to

chance to expand your horizons and increase

match your requirements and budget. We can

your travel independence. Having a self-drive

even guide you on which room type or specific

car means you can link destinations easily, visit

suite ticks the boxes – it’s all about empowering

a nearby resort for the day and travel at a time

you with as much information as possible to

to suit yourself.

allow you to make an informed choice.

We offer self-drive car rental options in most of our USA and Canada destinations using

Head to the web

Alamo and National. All of our vehicles come

It’s impossible to fit every property (and resort)

with the top level of cover (Gold) which includes

we feature into the brochure, so please visit our

all the mandatory insurances, taxes and

website www.ski-i.com to browse our extensive

charges. All of our self-drive car rental packages

collection. You’ll find detailed descriptions of

come with full driving instructions and maps to

each property, together with our own common-

help you get to your destination.

sense star rating, lots of pictures, room descriptions, facilities and amenities lists, special offers and a price guide.

It’s impossible to fit every property (and resort) we feature into the brochure, so please visit our website www.ski-i.com to browse our extensive collection.

Whether you’re looking for unashamed 5-star luxury, a room with a view, some contemporary comfort, a hotel with slopeside convenience or a family-friendly favourite, we’ll have something for you. Call one of our expert Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097 and they’ll help you find your perfect property.

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

WHISTLER - Explore the slopes BRITISH COLUMBIA

Whistler is Epic: a mile of vertical, two massive linked mountains, world-class terrain, a huge snow record, Olympic heritage, a long season and a village with a vibe like no other Whistler is a giant winter sports paradise that rivals anything on the planet!

ALT IT U DE

2140-7494 feet SKI AREA

8171 acres VERTI CA L

5280 feet SNOWFALL

39 feet (average) SEASON

Mid November - Mid May TERRAIN

Beginner 18% Intermediate 55% Advanced 27% AIR PORT

Vancouver 2:15 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

The figures speak for themselves

Develop your skills

e peaks here are vast and the skiing is serious. Whistler and Blackcomb mountains feature an unrivalled 8,000+ acres of terrain, with 12 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers and over 200 marked trails, as well as the most slopeside accommodation of any North American resort. Both mountains provide a huge range of beginner, intermediate and advanced skiing and snowboarding, and combined with a massive 10 year average annual snowfall of over 39 feet, the holiday experience in North America's largest resort truly is hard to beat.

If you’re a novice or an improver then the excellent Whistler Snow School will take exceptional care of you. ere’s a fantastic beginner zone on Whistler at mid-mountain where you’ll make your first turns in a safe, controlled and fun environment. After that, you progress up the mountain to the family zone and really then the sky is your limit – both mountains have plenty of terrain which allows learners to come to the full party from summit to village!

Winter 2018-19 saw a huge $66M investment in new and enhanced lift infrastructure projects, including a brand new 10-passenger gondola on Blackcomb which replaced the Wizard and Solar chairlifts. e new Blackcomb gondola now provides a mountain-top link to the incredible Peak2Peak Gondola over to Whistler Mountain.

e scale of the terrain for intermediate skiers and riders is quite simply phenomenal with around 55% of the total ski terrain classified as ‘intermediate’. But that statistic doesn’t really give you the detail – you will have access to long, long peak-to-creek trails, wide-open undulating cruisers such as ‘Rock’n’Roll’, huge alpine bowls above tree-line, glaciers and glades. You are totally spoilt for choice.

15

Pete

Overseas Operations Manager

We sell a full range of Whistler ski essentials – some with incredible discounts for booking early. We’ll keep you informed of all important ‘book by’ deadlines to ensure you always get the best possible price. We’ll advise you on the best lift ticket option that suits you and your family’s needs, give you an honest opinion on the correct snow school lessons package to buy, and get you the very best deal on equipment rentals. We can talk to you from firsthand experience on every aspect of your mountain product needs, allowing you to book with confidence.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler HHHHH

Everything a luxury 5-star ski hotel should be, with a great range of accommodation backed up by world class facilities and a special ambience to match. e Fairmont Chateau Whistler has a wonderfully relaxed feel for such an amazing 5-star property. You'll love the outstanding quality, attention to detail and instant access to world-class skiing and snowboarding.

• Ski-in/ski-out at Blackcomb base • 4 restaurants and lounges • Fairmont GOLD available • Huge outdoor pool & hot tubs • Extensive health club & spa

Four Seasons Resort Whistler HHHHH

Head to the 7th Heaven Express on Blackcomb to crank some fast wide turns, then jump on the Peak-2-Peak Gondola over to Whistler to play in Symphony Bowl above and below tree-line.

Test your mettle Advanced skiers should test themselves on the ‘Dave Murray Downhill’ from the top of the Garbanzo Express down to Whistler Creekside (with a visit to the legendary Dusty’s for a signature Caesar), or ride to Whistler’s Peak for a slot down ‘Whistler Bowl’ to ‘Doom & Gloom’ to ‘Frog Hollow’ or hit the Blackcomb Glacier – all world-class off-piste inbounds terrain that Whistler is renowned for.

If you class yourself as an expert skier or rider then it’s double black and don’t look back! Whistler offers some of the world’s very best double black diamond terrain. A hike into ‘Spanky’s Ladder’ is a must with a choice of steep descents down onto the Blackcomb Glacier, or search out the entrance to ‘Pakalolo’ from ‘Secret Bowl’ – oops, we’ve said too much! At the end of your epic day, finish with a well-earned pitcher of Alexander Keith’s at one of several rockin’ après-ski venues such as the Longhorn Saloon, the GLC, Merlins, or the Dubh Linn Gate.

Award-winning luxury in a secluded setting. e Four Seasons Resort is perhaps the finest 5-star luxury hotel in Whistler. Guests staying at this luxury ski hotel will be guaranteed to receive the very best in quality and service. It has a nice intimate feel and an attention to detail like no other. Expect a quiet location, exemplary service and world-class accommodation.

• Full service spa & health club • Slopeside ski concierge • Whistler’s finest accommodation • Hotel rooms, suites & residences • Beautiful restaurant & bar

Westin Resort & Spa Whistler HHHHH

Newly renovated, the family-friendly Westin Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel located at the base of Whistler Mountain right beside the gondolas. Offering comfortable studios, 1 and 2 bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens and fireplaces, it offers amazing value for money.

• Health club with pool & hot tubs • Superb restaurants & bar • Ideal setup for families • Prime slopeside location • #1 choice for families

You’ll find full information on Whistler, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

WHISTLER - Explore the resort BRITISH COLUMBIA

Our team’s Top 5 for…

With three resort bases and a lively pedestrianised centre, cosmopolitan Whistler has just as much magic off the slopes as on. And while this chic resort may look almost European in style, the down-to-earth atmosphere is full of warm Canadian charm.

Activities Zip-Trek

Three bases to enjoy

Tubing

Whistler Village, Upper Village and Creekside all offer excellent access to Whistler’s vast ski area, with pedestrian trails and free buses conveniently linking the three areas.

Skating Bobsleigh Scandinave Spa

Aprés ski GLC, Dusty’s Longhorn Merlins Dubh Linn Gate

Dining Araxis Hy’s Steakhouse Bearfoot Bistro The Grill Room RimRock Cafe

Traffic-free Whistler Village wasn’t the resort’s original base, but it is certainly the main hub now. Full of energy and conveniently located at the base of Whistler Mountain, it’s packed with boutiques, bars and restaurants. At its centre, you’ll find the winter wonderland Whistler Olympic Plaza with its beautiful outdoor ice rink and daily après-ski entertainment from live music to juggling.

Upper Village is situated a little outside of the buzz of the main resort at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. ere’s a wonderfully secluded feel here with a quieter choice of restaurants and some of the most luxurious hotels in resort.

Located a short five-minute drive west of Whistler Village, the relaxed Creekside area was the resort’s first base. A firm favourite among families, it boasts a lovely selection of condos along with its own pubs, restaurants, ski school, rental shop and gondola to take you up Whistler Mountain.

Activities galore Whistler has a huge choice of resort activities designed to complement your day on the mountain. Experience pampering bliss in one of the resort’s sumptuous spas, including the amazing Scandinave Spa. Move it up a notch at the family-friendly tubing park and skating rink. Try something a little more Canadian with a snowshoe tour or a dog-sledding adventure. Crank it back up and get your adrenaline pumping with a run down the incredible Olympic bob sleigh track at the Whistler Sliding Centre,

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Karen

Senior Ski Specialist

The après-ski and dining scene in Whistler is legendary. Kick things off with a pitcher or two on the patio at Merlin’s, the Longhorn or the GLC or check out the unique taste of a spicy Caesar at Dusty’s. For dinner the choice is vast but my personal favourite is the amazing Bearfoot Bistro. Finish the night off with some live music in the Dubh Linn Gate, or kick back with a favourite malt in the Mallard Lounge.

Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside HHHH PLUS

e Pan Pacific Mountainside is the perfect place to stay, with direct ski access to both mountains literally in front of the hotel. It doesn't get much more convenient than this. is is a full service hotel offering guests a wealth of first-class facilities and well-appointed luxury studios and suites.

• Whistler’s best location.

• Suites with fully equipped kitchens • Dubh Linn Gate pub • Ski valet and rental shop • Nice outdoor pool & hot tub

Pan Pacific Village Centre HHHH PLUS

e award-winning Pan Pacific Village Centre is a beautifully intimate boutique hotel featuring 82 fully equipped suites from 1 to 3 bedrooms.

Set back from the slopes this is a quieter more relaxed property than its slopeside sister hotel.

• Quiet location • Includes daily breakfast • Amazing views from upper floors • Outdoor pool and hot tubs • Ski storage at sister hotel

or experience the exhilaration of a fast-paced zipline tour down Whistler Mountain with Zip Trek Ecotours. Finish off your day with an evening snowcat trip up to the Crystal Hut at 6000ft on Blackcomb Mountain for a special candle-lit fondue dinner.

Great food and even better après Dining in Whistler is an international affair, with over 170 local restaurants showcasing cuisine from all over the world. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi or steak, fondue or fettuccine Whistler’s culinary scene won’t disappoint. Check out the indepth dining guide on our website for an up-to-date list of Whistler’s best establishments.

When it comes to world class après-ski, you’ll find that Whistler has all the bases covered. Expect the full spectrum of après in Whistler – everything from jumping slopeside bars with live music, an energetic vibe and all-night dancing, to low-key brewpubs with pool tables, serving great beer and signature caesars.

Delta Whistler Village Suites HHHH PLUS

Top quality, extensively renovated suite accommodation with full hotel service. All 1 and 2 bedroom suites have fully equipped kitchens with dishwasher and washer/dryer. is property is a firm favourite with Ski Independence guests.

• Free shuttle service • A few minutes’ walk to the ski gondolas • Pool, hot tub, sauna & steam room • Family-friendly accommodation • Perfect family choice

You’ll find full information on Whistler, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

WHISTLER - Where to stay BRITISH COLUMBIA

Pan Pacific Village Centre, Whistler

As with everything else in Whistler, the choice of accommodation is vast. From comfortable self-catered lodgings to the ultimate in five-star luxury, we feature first-class accommodation in all three resort bases.

Whistler is home to some of the finest luxury accommodation we offer, much of it in coveted ski-in/skiout locations. If you like to stay in the most elegant surroundings with superb facilities and exemplary service, you’ll find some world-class establishments offering the very best in quality.

As the resort’s thriving hub, Whistler Village is where you’ll find the largest number of accommodation options. With convenient access to both ski mountains and a wealth of après-ski on your doorstep, it’s easy to see the appeal of basing yourself in the heart of the resort.

at’s not to say you won’t find something to suit every budget in Whistler. Many families love the flexibility and home-from-home feel of a self-catering condo, while others find a cosy mountain lodge can be the ideal place to retreat to after a long day on the slopes.

From sleek upscale rooms and suites brought to you by wellknown hotel chains like Pan Pacific and Westin Resorts to smaller boutique hotels full of traditional character and great-value self-catered accommodation, you’ll find plenty of variety including some fantastic slopeside locations.

Whatever your tastes, Whistler is full of options, with each resort base featuring a slightly different accommodation selection to admire.

Whistler Village

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Nita Lake Lodge HHHH PLUS

Beautifully elegant lakeside boutique property in Whistler Creekside, only 500m free shuttle ride to the gondola. Expect refined luxury in a quiet setting with a really nice ambience.

• Award-winning restaurants & bar • Roof-top hot tubs • Suites with spectacular views • Fitness gym, yoga centre • Great cafe

Crystal Lodge Westin Resort and Spa Whistler

HHHH

Village stroll location only steps from both gondolas in Whistler Village. Great range of newly renovated accommodation from traditional hotel rooms to 3 bedroom suites. e Crystal Lodge offers a winning combination of price + location + facilities.

• Choice of 3 restaurants & bar • • • •

Nice pool and hot tub Comfort and convenience Ski valet & storage Superb value for money

Summit Boutique Hotel HHHH

Four Seasons Resort Whistler

Upper Village Whistler’s tranquil Upper Village is home to the resort’s most opulent and luxurious hotels, such as the Four Seasons Resort and Residences and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. But if this area appeals, we also feature some fabulous budget-friendly condos and lodges offering that enviable ski-in/ski-out access.

Creekside Family-friendly Creekside has a laid-back neighbourhood feel, with many locals residing in the area. Whether you would like to stay in a luxury lakeside lodge with gorgeous views of Nita Lake or convenient self-catered accommodation just seconds from the gondola, you’ll find something to suit.

Aodhan

Senior Ski Specialist

Check out our website (www.ski-i.com) for comprehensive information, guide pricing and lots more pictures of our full range of Whistler accommodation, together with details of our outstanding early booking offers. With savings of up to 50% on the price of your accommodation, free night offers and complimentary room upgrades available, it definitely pays to book early to benefit from the best offers!

Quirky, smart, and funky, this beautiful boutique hotel offers fabulous studios and 1 bedroom suites with cutting-edge interior design based on the Pacific Northwest - quirky and colourful, the Summit is a little different and comes with a nice friendly vibe.

• Designer units with kitchenettes • Café EightyOne serves great coffee • Nice restaurant & spa • Service with a smile • Sock monsters!

Aava Whistler Hotel HHH PLUS

e Aava Whistler Hotel offers guests great accommodation in a central Whistler location, about a 400m walk from the Whistler gondolas and tucked behind the Crystal Lodge, this is a perfect choice for those looking for modern, boutique-style accommodation at a great price.

• Nicely renovated hotel rooms • Pool, sauna & hot tub • Free GoPro HD rentals • CABN restaurant next door • Lobby Nespresso cafe

You’ll find full information on Whistler, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

VANCOUVER BRITISH COLUMBIA

e friendly city of Vancouver makes a fantastic stopover destination when paired with a holiday in one of our British Columbia ski resorts, especially nearby Whistler. Why not take a few days to soak up the city’s stunning vistas and vibrant cultural scene?

Explore the city Sitting right on the shores of the Pacific Ocean with a majestic backdrop of snow-capped mountains, this scenic city has adventure in its blood. With easy access to both the mountains and the ocean, there are countless opportunities for outdoor sports and activities.

One of our favourite spots is the vast Stanley Park, which extends to over 1,000 acres and is a wonderful place to explore. Hike through mighty cedar forests, rollerblade along the coastal seawalls or take the family to the colourful Vancouver Aquarium. We also love the Olympic Village, home to the athletes competing in the 2010 Winter Olympics and now full of interesting delights from wetland parks to ice cream carts. Taking a ferry from the village over to bustling Granville Island is a must.

While Vancouver enjoys a lucky location surrounded by nature’s playground, you’ll also find no end of cultural diversions. e vast Vancouver Art Gallery is the pride of the city, showcasing an impressive collection of national and international artworks. e UBC Museum of Anthropology houses a fascinating collection of indigenous First Nations art and artefacts, while Robson Street is the place to go to catch a glimpse of Vancouver’s thriving film industry.

Strolling through the different Vancouver neighbourhoods is a great way to get a true taste of the eclectic cultures that bring the city to life. Walk the historic cobbled streets of Gastown, relax in the Dr Sun-Yat Classical Chinese Gardens and delicious restaurants of Chinatown, or join the hipsters for craft beers in quirky Mount Pleasant.

Vancouver is an accessible city, with most of the city’s sights easily reached on foot or by the excellent public transport system, which includes buses, SkyTrains and ferries.

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Fairmont Waterfront HHHHH

e newly renovated Fairmont Waterfront is a fabulous 5-star hotel located on the inner harbour of Vancouver, right next to downtown.

Stunning harbour, Stanley Park and North Shore mountain views, warm welcoming service, and a convenient location, make the Fairmont Waterfront the perfect fit while visiting Vancouver • • • • •

Stunning views Health club and pool Fantastic restaurant & bar Skytrain station nearby Fairmont GOLD available

Fairmont Pacific Rim HHHHH

e Fairmont Pacific Rim is a world-class luxury 5-star hotel located on the inner harbour of Vancouver close to the Fairmont Waterfront.

Perfect location, exemplary service, first-class accommodation and relaxed ambience are all key features of this simply stunning hotel.

• Willow Stream Spa • • • •

Roof top pool Beautifully designed rooms Incredible restaurant & bar Fairmont GOLD available

Fairmont Vancouver Airport HHHHH

Rest your head Vancouver boasts a superior selection of hotels, many with prime waterfront locations offering sweeping views across the harbour to the spectacular North Shore mountains beyond.

We’ve hand-picked a world-class selection of five and four-star hotels in Vancouver, each offering exemplary service and their own unique ambiance. Choose airport convenience, timeless downtown elegance, contemporary cool or distinctive waterfront luxury. Most of our featured hotels are within convenient walking distance of some of Vancouver’s top tourist destinations, including the central business district, Gastown, Robson Street, Pacific Center shopping mall and the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Morven

Ski Specialist

Vancouver is one of the world’s great cities – scenic, cosmopolitan and vibrant, with a nice climate and a warm Canadian welcome. Use it as a stopover point before travelling further afield, or as an interesting city break pre or post skiing in BC, or perhaps as a starting point for an island adventure. The choice is yours.

e Fairmont Vancouver Airport has been awarded #1 Airport Hotel in North America for 5 years in a row! It is the only soundproofed, luxury hotel and spa within the airport terminal at YVR International Airport. If you're looking for a convenient choice for an airport hotel, then look no further.

• Award winning restaurants & bar • Health club and pool • Fully soundproofed rooms • Within airport terminal • Fairmont GOLD available

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre HHHH

is excellent central Vancouver downtown hotel has been newly renovated, offers great value for money and spectacular views, plus a range of facilities that is second to none.

Families will love this property, especially using the Sheraton Family Suite!

• Family-friendly restaurants • Indoor pool and fitness centre • Spectacular views • Traditional rooms to 2 bedroom suites • Club Level available

You’ll find full information on Vancouver, including travel and lodging options, discounted excursions, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

We know where you’ll find

the white stuff Soft, dry, light and plentiful – the snow that falls in Canada and the USA is truly in a league of its own. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> It's all about the snow

Whether you’re in the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, Wasatch, Tetons or the Monashees, or indeed any of the other soaring mountain ranges in North America, you can expect to ski and ride some of the very best powder snow conditions you’ve ever experienced.

W

hen it snows in North America it generally snows hard – a snowfall of

several feet overnight is not uncommon. Some of our featured resorts receive almost 40 feet of snow each winter - that’s approximately the height of three London buses stacked on top of each other.

But it’s not all about the quantity, it’s also about the quality. A combination of cold, dry polar air mixing with moist ocean air over the

can be regarded as exceptional. In North

continent’s massive mountain ranges plus the

America these include Whistler and Revelstoke

high altitude of the resorts, makes for a perfect

in British Columbia, Snowbird and Solitude in

recipe for snow that is light, dry and plentiful.

Utah, Squaw Valley and Kirkwood in California,

Such exceptional powder snow of course, makes

and Jackson Hole in Wyoming.

North America a top destination for off-piste

Or maybe it’s the quality of snow that’s

aficionados, but that’s not to say it doesn’t work

important to you. In that case you’re probably

just as well on groomed trails too!

after ‘Champagne Powder’, a phrase used to describe the premium snow conditions in North America. For the lightest, driest snow conditions make tracks for the big Colorado and Utah resorts, such as Breckenridge and Park City.

For some, however, they just want the white stuff to be around for longer, so for a 6 month season that starts in November and cranks all the way through until mid-May, head for Banff, Whistler, Breckenridge, Squaw Valley or

North American resorts also boast longer,

Mammoth.

more consistent ski seasons than their European cousins, kicking things off from mid-November

Our ski team’s favourites

right through to mid-April, even late-May in

Hit the conditions just right and the concensus

places.

was that anywhere could be a new favourite.

But when pushed the team agreed that on a

Which resorts are the snowiest?

blue-bird, epic powder day you can’t beat Aspen

Well that all depends what people are looking for

or Vail in Colorado; if steep and deep is your

when they talk about ‘snowiest’.

thing, then Jackson Hole or Whistler, and if

If you’re after the most snow, then any resort that receives close to 40 feet of snow per winter

Main image: Snow ghosts in Silver Star.

Left: Champagne powder on the slopes of Breckenridge.

Right: Big snow in Big White.

cruising the corduroy makes you smile, head to Beaver Creek or Big White.

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

BANFF ALBERTA

e historic mountain town of Banff has achieved iconic status within the global winter sports community thanks to its exceptional slopes and energetic atmosphere. Drawing in everyone from young families to professional skiers, it’s a fun-loving winter utopia.

ALT IT U DE

5440-8954 feet SKI AREA

3358 acres VERTI CA L

3514 feet SNOWFALL

30 feet (average) SEASON

Mid November - Late May TERRAIN

Beginner 20% Intermediate 55% Advanced 25% AIR PORT

Calgary 2:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Explore the resort

With easy access to not one but three ski areas, Banff offers unbelievable ski terrain. A Tri-Area Lift Ticket will give you access to the Banff Sunshine Village, Banff Mt Norquay and Lake Louise ski areas. Beginners have plenty of wide, gentle green and blue runs where they can grow in confidence and skill. Experienced skiers and riders have a vast area to explore featuring everything from steep gullies to out-ofthis-world freeriding on the region’s famously dry powder.

e snowy streets of downtown Banff are packed with welcoming cafés, fantastic restaurants, quirky boutiques and friendly bars. As a bona fide mountain town, it has an unpretentious atmosphere that celebrates its traditional heritage and embraces modern trends at the same time.

Locals and visitors mingle happily, brought together by a shared love of spending time in the great outdoors.

High-speed gondolas and chairlifts transport you easily around the slopes, and you’ll find no end of cosy mountain restaurants to take a break in.

Banff après-ski covers everything from innovative fine dining to chilled out beers around roaring log-burners.

Enjoy the Canadian beer culture with a cold pint at a craft brewery, sample such local culinary delicacies as elk steak and bison burgers, or sip fine wines in a stylish bistro as you watch the sun set behind a silhouette of peaks and ridges.

After dark, things tend to get lively as Banff’s bars and clubs crank up the floor-filling tunes.

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Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel HHHHH

With first-class service and world-class facilities, this iconic ‘Castle in the Rockies’ certainly has the ‘Wow!’ factor. Simply exceptional.

• Huge Willow Stream Spa • 11 restaurants and lounges • Fairmont GOLD available

Moose Hotel & Suites HHHH

is great addition to Banff Avenue has a nice ambience and some well thought-out features.

Check out the amazing roof-top hot tubs!

• Meadow Spa and pools • Excellent rooftop suites • Great restaurant and bar

Fox Hotel & Suites HHHH

Sister property to the Moose, the Fox is within easy reach of Banff’s downtown core. All rooms and suites include daily continental breakfast.

• Indoor pool, steam room and sauna • Chili’s Bar & Grill • Suites with kitchenettes

Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa HHH PLUS

is is a popular downtown hotel with great amenities. Most rooms benefit from wonderful views of the surrounding Rockies.

• Spa and 26 person hot tub • Keg Steak House & Bar • Ski bus picks up outside

Canalta Lodge HHH PLUS

Newly renovated with great design features and awesome facilities, the classy Canalta Lodge is quickly becoming a Banff classic.

• Complimentary daily breakfast • Outdoor hot tubs, plunge pool and sauna • Great choice of room styles

Banff Aspen Lodge HHH PLUS

Rest your head We’ve carefully hand-picked the best accommodation options in Banff for you. Treat yourself to a stay in one of the resort’s world-class luxury ski hotels, complete with 5-star facilities and unparalleled service. Relax in a secluded ski-in/ski-out alpine lodge where you can bask in sweeping views and the tranquillity of the wilderness. Or maybe you’d prefer a comfortable room in a charming downtown inn with Banff’s bustling après-ski on your doorstep? Whatever your preference, we have something to suit all tastes.

is warm, friendly hotel in Banff town centre offers a daily full Canadian Rockies breakfast, which is possibly one of the best in the resort.

• Whitebark Café – best coffee in Banff • Rooms with flexible bedding styles • Sauna, steam room & outdoor hot tubs

Mount Royal Hotel HHH PLUS

e newly re-built Mount Royal Hotel is an iconic landmark in central Banff. Guests can enjoy access to a rooftop lounge with hot tubs.

• Toque Canadian Pub for après • Tony Roma's for AAA Alberta beef • Regular free ski shuttle

Elk + Avenue Hotel

Nick

Product Manager

Banff is a quintessential ski mountain town with a unique community spirit and energy. It shouts loud and proud about its historic mountain heritage, whilst at the same time managing to be cool, current and ontrend. It’s small, friendly and compact with the downtown hub only really three blocks long by two wide.

HHH PLUS

e Elk & Avenue is a comfortable and contemporary property just steps away from downtown Banff. A great choice for families.

• Great bar & restaurant • Awesome central location • Sauna, steam room and hot tub

You’ll find full information on Banff, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

LAKE LOUISE ALBERTA

Deep within Banff National Park close to the shores of a vast frozen lake, lies the stunning resort of Lake Louise. Encircled by a dramatic backdrop of snow-laden forests and the peaks and glaciers of the Canadian Rockies, you couldn’t dream up a more idyllic setting.

ALT IT U DE

5440-8650 feet SKI AREA

4200 acres VERTI CA L

3250 feet SNOWFALL

15 feet (average) SEASON

Mid November - Early May TERRAIN

Beginner 25% Intermediate 45% Advanced 30% AIR PORT

Calgary 2:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Lake Louise boasts over 145 ski trails to suit skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities. On the lower slopes you’ll find gentle tree-lined runs, while the upper slopes are all about wide, open trails with spectacular views. Advanced skiers and riders can try their hand at the World Cup downhill run or head over the top of the mountain to play in vast snow bowls and exhilarating powder chutes.

e hamlet of Lake Louise is small and picturesque with a handful of shops and bars. Most of the resort’s dining and après-ski takes place within its superb hotels, making it a wonderfully tranquil destination for those who wish to focus their energies on the skiing. at said, there are also plenty of non-skiing activities to be enjoyed, whether you fancy dog sledding through the forests, stargazing on a moonlit snowshoe tour, or ice skating on the frozen lake.

e unique layout of Lake Louise’s ski area is made for mixed ability groups. With novice, intermediate and advanced trails leading off from the summit of every chairlift, you can happily explore, safe in the knowledge there’s a route down for everyone. Freestylers can head to the Showtime Terrain Park, one of the biggest in western Canada, while budding ski and snowboard cross racers can test their skills on the berms and jumps of the resort’s worldclass Snow Cross course.

Lake Louise is just 40 miles from the lively resort of Banff, which has two ski mountains to discover, Sunshine Village and Banff Mount Norquay. Why not consider a twin-centre itinerary, spending time in both resorts? You can ski a total of 8,000 acres across all three mountains with a Tri Area lift ticket, which includes convenient daily transfers. Book your discounted Tri Area lift tickets through us before 31 October and up to 3 kids per paying adult will ski free.

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Gareth

Sales Manager

The Tri Area lift ticket will definitely give you the bug for multi destination skiing – ski three different resorts in one holiday. What’s not to love? But it doesn’t have to stop there. With daily transfers to Jasper and Kicking Horse, and both Panorama and Revelstoke an easy drive away, it’s easy to see why Lake Louise is a great focal point for an incredible Canadian multi-centre road trip odyssey. See pages 48 & 49 for suggested itineraries and adventures.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise HHHHH

e peerless Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has an amazing location on the shores of Lake Louise, surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies. Impressive in every sense, it effortlessly blends tradition with modern facilities to create one of the world’s truly great hotels.

• Massive range of rooms and suites • • • •

Exemplary service Legendary views 7 restaurants and lounges Fairmont GOLD available

Post Hotel & Spa HHHH PLUS

e Post Hotel & Spa is a luxury boutique hotel with a quiet, secluded location which manages to effortlessly combine the spirit of its British founder with the Swiss heritage of its current owners. If you appreciate sumptuous lodging, good food, fantastic wine and great company then the Post is the place to be.

• Award winning restaurants • Extensive wine list • Beautifully designed rooms • Indoor pool and spa • Pub and lounge

Rest your head Our featured Lake Louise accommodation offers a great mix of styles from exquisite five-star hotels to cosy inns and lodges. All are located just 5-10 minutes from the base of the Lake Louise ski area, with free ski shuttles regularly transporting guests to the slopes. If the idea of luxurious lakeside accommodation with first-class facilities appeals, we can’t recommend the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise highly enough. Situated right on the shores of the lake, it offers breath-taking views amidst classically beautiful décor. You’ll find rustic Canadian charm aplenty in Lake Louise’s mountain lodges and inns. ink roaring log fires, exposed timber and a warm welcome, with contemporary luxuries like rooftop hot tubs complementing things nicely.

Lake Louise Inn HHH PLUS

Firmly family-focused, the Lake Louise Inn offers a range of flexible room and suite styles spread over a five building complex. It offers a good choice of restaurants and leisure facilities including a large indoor pool. It’s located just 1km from the ski area and is served by the free regular shuttle.

• Family-friendly restaurants • Indoor pool and hot tubs • Explorers Lounge for lively après • Traditional rooms to 2 bedroom condos

You’ll find full information on Lake Louise, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

JASPER ALBERTA

Set amongst the staggering scenery of the largest National Park in the Canadian Rockies, the down-to-earth mountain town of Jasper is home to rugged wilderness landscapes, amazing ski terrain and a sociable local community keen to welcome you with open arms.

ALT IT U DE

5570-8570 feet SKI AREA

1720 acres VERTI CA L

3000 feet SNOWFALL

15 feet (average) SEASON

Late November - Early May TERRAIN

Beginner 30% Intermediate 30% Advanced 40% AIR PORT

Calgary 5hrs Edmonton 4.5hrs Lake Louise 2:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Jasper’s Marmot Basin ski area is the real deal, thoroughly spoiling skiers and boarders with its beautifully varied terrain, unbeatable snow conditions and uncrowded slopes.

You won’t even have to wait in line for the ski lifts. Whether you’re a beginner looking for lovely gentle blues to cruise or a thrill seeker on the hunt for powder bowls and gnarly tree runs, Marmot Basin is a dream.

Jasper is close-knit mountain town with a laid-back, funloving feel. e aesthetic is very much traditional Rocky Mountain style, with lots of picturesque wooden lodges and pretty homes with pitched roofs. Everywhere you look, the majestic backdrop of soaring peaks adds a touch of magic to this wild destination.

e ski terrain is split evenly between easy, intermediate and advanced, making this an ideal destination for the whole family and all abilities to ski together. e lower slopes are perfect for novices with their gentle tree-lined green runs, while from the summit of Outer Limits you’ll find lots of lovely cruisey blues. Eagle East and Marmot’s newest terrain addition – Tres Hombres – offer up some exciting single and double black diamond runs, with plenty to challenge experienced skiers and boarders.

While Jasper is a relatively small town, it has an eclectic choice of restaurants and a smattering of characterful aprèsski venues including some excellent brewpubs. e menu of non-skiing activities is anything but small with everything from heli-skiing to ice canyon walks to choose from. When night falls, remember to cast your gaze up to the heavens to admire the spectacular blanket of stars – Jasper is the second largest dark sky preserve in the world.

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Magda

Ski Specialist

Stunning scenery, amazing snow, great family ski terrain and unbeatable value for money are the hallmarks of this Canadian Rockies classic. With a ski season that lasts into May, Marmot Basin is the perfect family Easter holiday destination. Book by 30 November and we’ll give you a massive 50% discount on adult lift tickets for Marmot Basin, plus a complimentary ski shuttle, and FREE kids lift tickets!

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge HHHHH

Rest your head Accommodation in Jasper perfectly blends rugged Rockies heritage with contemporary comfort. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate in world-class luxury or a cool downtown base, you can expect excellent facilities, fresh design and gorgeous views from our small but superb selection of featured hotels.

Perhaps the Rockies’ most unique luxury hotel, the 5 star Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge sits just outside the town of Jasper on the shores of Lac Beauvert in an area of pristine wilderness – expect luxury, awesome facilities and amazing views. Or stay in town at the beautifully renovated Crimson where you’ll find comfort and convenience – from here it’s a short walk to Jasper’s downtown core, and the regular free ski bus picks up outside. is remote part of the Rockies has a special atmosphere, so expect a genuinely warm welcome and the highest levels of service during your stay.

Set in 700 acres of wilderness on the shores of Lac Beauvert, the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is distinctly different from other luxury hotels.

Whilst the main lodge contains all the facilities you’d expect at a luxury 5 star resort, the accommodation is spread throughout the grounds within rustic cedar chalets and heritage log cabins. It’s secluded, charming and magnificently unique.

• Massive range of rooms and suites • Huge spa & health club • Lakefront setting with mountain views • 4 restaurants and lounges • Signature cabins with up to 8 bedrooms

The Crimson Jasper HHH PLUS

is cleverly renovated Jasper classic has all the bases covered for a great Jasper holiday. Offering amazing value for money with a super location, it’s an easy walk to the Jasper downtown core where you’ll find a good choice of funky shops, lively bars and interesting restaurants. We love the unpretentious vibe of the Crimson. Expect large comfortable rooms with some nice features like Keurig coffee machine, fridges and microwaves.

• Family-friendly restaurant & bar • Indoor pool and hot tub • Excellent downtown location • Large traditional rooms and studios • Ski bus picks up outside

You’ll find full information on Jasper, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

Experience ski terrain that’s

out of this world When a continent is home to the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains, it comes as no surprise that the ski terrain is out of this world. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> World-class ski terrain for everyone

North America is the land of perfect snow, beautifully groomed trails, thrilling backcountry adventures and the iconic Rocky Mountains.

T

he Rockies stretch 3000 miles from Jasper,

specific experience of your preferred destination

way up in Alberta, down through Montana

and will be delighted to guide you through what

and Utah to the Southern Rockies with its

the ski terrain and resort has to offer.

legendary Colorado ski resorts such as Vail and Aspen. Add in the Laurentian Mountains in

Our team’s top tips for…

Quebec, the Grand Tetons in Wyoming, the

Families: Panorama, Sun Peaks, Tremblant and

Green Mountains in Vermont and the mighty

Big White are among our picks, offering an

Sierra Nevada in California and you begin to see

easy-going vibe, great ski schools and a range of

just why the North American ski experience is

terrain to satisfy mixed abilities.

renowned for delivering exceptional terrain.

You’ll find jagged peaks with glaciers; high Alpine terrain above the treeline; wide-open bowls with vast off-piste options; long, slow

Beginners: Steamboat, Breckenridge, Jasper, Banff and Winter Park are all home to fantastic learner slopes – often in their own special zone – and lots of gorgeous, long blue cruisers to progress on to once you’ve mastered the basics.

Intermediates: Big White is probably the best intermediate-friendly resort. Whistler has to be our top choice for mile-hungry skiers and boarders keen to build their confidence, though Park City comes close as does Steamboat.

Advanced: Skiers and riders will love the extensive ski terrain and challenging black and

tree-lined cruisers; family slow-zones and ‘beginners only’ areas; as well as glades, bumps, parks, pipes and chutes. How will you choose?

double black diamond runs in Aspen, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Kicking Horse and Whistler.

Off-piste: Revelstoke, Panorama and Whistler offer stunning backcountry terrain and the

Making the right selection

chance to reach the most remote parts via cat or

It’s not always about finding the resort with the

heli skiing. For huge areas of in-bounds off-piste,

largest ski area - Whistler, in case you’re

look no further than Lake Louise and Vail.

wondering - sometimes a smaller, boutique mountain will suit you perfectly. You might be a novice, travelling with children or looking for a low-key retreat. Or perhaps you’re simply after the best terrain for your kind of skiing or riding.

Each resort page has statistics and a brief description of what to expect when you’re there, but head to our website for more in-depth information, pictures and trail maps.

However, most of our clients find the best route to making their choice is to call one of our

Freestylers: We love the Unbound terrain parks

Ski Specialists, who love nothing more than

in Mammoth, the Gold Coast park in Squaw, and

talking about skiing! One of our team will have

the 4 pro-standard snow parks in Breckenridge.

Main image: Vail - over 5000 acres of jaw-dropping terrain Left: A taste of the wild west in Jackson Hole Right: Testing the air in Lake Louise

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

SUN PEAKS BRITISH COLUMBIA

Family favourite Sun Peaks boasts Canada’s second largest ski area, in the heart of beautiful British Columbia. Perfect for complete beginners – yet with plenty to challenge expert skiers and riders – this ski-in/ski-out resort offers the ultimate in slopeside convenience.

ALT IT U DE

4116-7060 feet SKI AREA

4270 acres VERTI CA L

2894 feet SNOWFALL

19 feet (average) SEASON

Late November - Mid April TERRAIN

Beginner 10% Intermediate 58% Advanced 32% AIR PORT

Kamloops 0:45 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Sun Peaks certainly lives up to its name, with an abundance of blue skies and sunny ski days, as well as an enviable snow record of almost 3 metres of light, dry powder every winter. e ski area spreads across three interlinked mountains – Mount Tod, Sundance and Mount Morrisey. Amounting to an impressive 4,270 acres, Sun Peak’s phenomenal ski terrain has everything from high alpine snow bowls to pretty gladed zones. You’ll find a mix of trails to suit all abilities leading from the summit of every lift, so families and groups can explore together with ease.

Sun Peak’s compact village, situated right next to the slopes, has a wonderful relaxed atmosphere. e ease of access to all three ski mountains, fun child-friendly events programme and excellent resort amenities all serve to cement its status as one of Canada’s best family ski destinations.

If you’ve never tried skiing or snowboarding before, Sun Peaks is the ideal place to learn with some of the best green trails in the world – the longest of which is a blissful five miles long! For more advanced options, head above the treeline on Mount Tod to find an exhilarating snowy playground of bowls, chutes and wide open runs.

ere’s plenty on offer besides skiing and snowboarding, including a tubing park, an outdoor ice skating rink, lots of lovely little boutiques and the Sundance Kids’ Centre, which offers child-minding and popular activity nights. Torch-lit skiing is an unforgettable experience, while the Snow-Limo offers non-skiers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of a downhill run. While Sun Peaks is certainly a haven for families with children, there’s also a great choice of lively après-ski. e pedestrianised Main Street is where you’ll find the largest cluster of bars and restaurants, and several hotels with stylish lounges and even nightclubs.

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Sun Peaks Grand Hotel HHHH PLUS

Sun Peak’s best property, and one of the top ski hotels in our programme, the Grand has a prime slopeside spot right in the heart of the village.

• Choice of rooms, suites & residences • Outdoor pool and hot tubs • Summit Club Level available

Nancy Greene’s Cahilty Hotel HHH PLUS

Home of Olympic Gold Medallist Nancy Greene, this fabulous slopeside lodge features spacious and well-appointed rooms with great facilities.

• Restaurant & bar • Fantastic ski-in/ski-out location • Indoor and outdoor hot tubs

Sun Peaks Lodge HHH PLUS

Rest your head ere aren’t many resorts that exclusively feature ski-in/ski-out accommodation, but Sun Peaks is one of the rare few. We have selected a fantastic choice of hotels, lodges and condos in premium slopeside locations, allowing you to ski right to your door. What could be better after a long day tearing up the slopes? Our accommodation ranges from grand luxury hotels with amazing facilities and glorious alpine views, to smaller boutique hotels and family-run lodges with bags of charm, to picturesque condo complexes with plenty of social space for families.

You’re certain of a warm welcome in this familyrun hotel, which has an Alpine lodge feel and a relaxed ambience - a Sun Peaks classic.

• Prime ski-in/ski-out location • Excellent restaurant & bar • Indoor hot tub, sauna and steam room

Hearthstone Lodge HHH PLUS

Boutique-style lodge on a slopeside position in the village centre. Enjoy a breakfast muffin and coffee from the amazing Tod Mountain Cafe.

• Studios and condos with kitchenettes • Two restaurants and a café • Ski storage and ski rental shop

Crystal Forest Condos

Craig

Ski Specialist

We have a fantastic value-for-money offer on lift tickets at Sun Peaks during the period 26 February to 19 March. Pay for one lift ticket and we’ll give you the second lift ticket FREE! Check out our website for full details, terms and conditions on our Sun Peaks ski essentials.

HHH PLUS

With a ski-in/walk-out position at the top of the village, these spacious, comfortable units are perfect for when you want a bit more space.

• 1 to 4 bedroom condos • Some units with private hot tubs • Fully equipped kitchens

You’ll find full information on Sun Peaks, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

BIG WHITE BRITISH COLUMBIA

Set deep in British Columbia’s ski country, Big White is an easy-going ski destination with great terrain and even better powder. Popular with families thanks to its ski-in/ski-out village and fantastic amenities, this gorgeous resort is somewhere you can really unwind.

ALT IT U DE

4950-7606 feet SKI AREA

2765 acres VERTI CA L

2550 feet SNOWFALL

25 feet (average) SEASON

Late November - Mid April TERRAIN

Beginner 18% Intermediate 54% Advanced 28% AIR PORT

Kelowna 0:45 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

With over 2,750 acres of ski terrain and regular dumps of the famously fluffy, dry BC powder, Big White offers plenty of opportunity for play. e terrain is varied, boasting slopes to suit everyone from young learners to experienced freeriders. It’s also famous for its “snow ghost” trees, which stay white all winter long.

Big White continues its family-orientated ethos off the slopes, offering a wealth of kid-friendly activities, events and accommodation in its picturesque resort village. Set right next to the slopes, the choice of activities on your doorstep is immense. Whizz down the ‘Mega Snow Coaster’ (the resort’s snow tubing slope), take a snowshoe hike through snow-laden forests, enjoy a dog-sled ride or scale the 60-foot ice climbing tower. For something more relaxed, enjoy a magical sleigh ride or just soak in a serene mountain spa.

Families are superbly catered to in Big White. ere’s an award-winning ski school, an abundance of wide, open beginner slopes and a state-of-the-art children’s ski zone the ideal place to master those early skills. Expert skiers and boarders can enjoy the resort’s more demanding black diamond runs and amazing off-piste terrain, especially the renowned Cliff Area with its huge stashes of ungroomed powder, the enormous Sun Rype bowl and Gem Lake with its tranquil gladed trails. Freestylers should head to TELUS Park for pipes, groomers, rails and a fast-paced cross track.

Big White’s local cuisine has everything from incredible gourmet steaks to cheerful Canadian classics like poutine. e local Okanagan area is home to over 130 wineries, so the restaurants here are known for their fantastic local wine lists. When it comes to après-ski bars, don’t miss a visit to lively Snowshoe Sam’s, voted the country’s favourite by Ski Canada magazine.

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Stonegate Resort HHHH PLUS

Ideally located in the heart of Big White, the beautiful Stonegate Resort offers luxury condos and superb on-site facilities.

• Units with private hot tubs • 1 to 3 bedroom condos • Spacious and fully-equipped

Stonebridge Lodge HHHH

Stonebridge Lodge features 75 fully equipped condos right in the very heart of the village with slopeside access to the Easy Street beginner trail.

• Outdoor pool & fitness facility • Units with private hot tubs • Great bistro on-site

Sundance Resort HHHH

is family-friendly, slopeside resort offers some amazing facilities, including a pool with a slide, hot tubs and a movie theatre • Condos with fully equipped kitchens • 1 to 4 bedroom condos • Units with private hot tubs

White Crystal Inn HHH PLUS

One of Big White’s original and best hotels, with a stellar position right in the very centre, next to Lara’s Gondola and the Bullet Express chair.

• Ski-in/ski-out access • BullWheel Gastro Pub • Smaller hotel with great facilities

Inn at Big White HHH PLUS

e only 3-star plus hotel in Big White to have an outdoor pool, it has a level of facilities which sets it apart from all other Big White properties.

• Rooms with galley kitchenettes • Outdoor pool and hot tub • Blarney Stone Irish Tavern

Chateau Big White HHH PLUS

Rest your head Big White is home to a wonderful choice of ski-in/ski-out accommodation across a range of budgets. You can opt for luxury condos and suites, cosy private homes or friendly mountain lodges. At the most luxurious end of the scale, Big White offers beautiful upscale condos with a sophisticated touch. Enjoy unrivalled access to the slopes, ease aching legs in your private outdoor hot tub and relax in spacious home-fromhome accommodation. While many families love the flexibility of self-catered properties, you’ll also find some superior hotels and inns in Big White. Because sometimes there’s nothing better than being completely off-duty on holiday.

Karen

Ski Specialist

We have a number of great lodging offers at Big White giving you up to 4 free nights, but for the very best deal we suggest you visit Big White in April during the school Easter holidays when lodging prices are at their lowest, plus we’ll give you an exclusive 50% discount on lift tickets too!

is nice boutique-style full-service hotel is located slopeside, right in the heart of the village, beside the legendary Snowshoe Sam’s.

• Restaurant & bar • Rooms with flexible bedding styles • Elevation Village day spa

Big White Premium Condos HHH PLUS

We only sell Big White’s best condos, described as ‘Premium’ properties, featuring big, spacious, well-equipped condos and townhomes.

• Eight individual properties • Most with slopeside location • Most with private hot tub

Big White Vacation Homes HHH PLUS

Big White’s Vacation Homes are ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a home-from-home with first-class facilities.

• 2, 3 & 4 bedroom private homes • Fully equipped and spacious • All with private hot tub

You’ll find full information on Big White, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

REVELSTOKE BRITISH COLUMBIA

While the little town of Revelstoke has 120 years of skiing history under its belt, the resort is a newcomer on the BC ski scene. But with staggering alpine terrain, a buzzing vibe and Canada’s best snowfall, it’s already established itself as a world-class powerhouse.

ALT IT U DE

1680-7300 feet SKI AREA

3121 acres VERTI CA L

5620 feet SNOWFALL

38 feet (average)

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Home to the largest vertical drop of any North American resort at an epic 5,620 feet, Revelstoke is all about big mountain skiing and snowboarding. New runs are still being added to the ski area but there are already over 3,000 acres of uncrowded slopes to explore.

As a real year-round mountain community, downtown Revelstoke has a habit of making you feel right at home. e vibrant streets are lined with small independent shops and eateries, and you’re likely to get chatting with the locals wherever you go. Whether it’s down to the spectacular views or the incredible ski slopes, this is a genuinely happy resort that will sweep you up in its enthusiasm for outdoor life. As well as offering a wealth of thrilling ways to access the best skiing, Revelstoke lays on winter experiences everyone can enjoy. Try exploring these majestic landscapes by dog sled, snowshoe, fat bike or even paraglider.

SEASON

Early December - Mid April TERRAIN

Beginner 7% Intermediate 46% Advanced 47% AIR PORT

Kelowna 2:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Almost half of the entire Revelstoke ski area is devoted to advanced runs, so whether you love flowing groomers, highaltitude snow bowls or exhilarating gladed descents, you can expect to be truly inspired. Add in a 14-acre freestyle park and the fact that Revelstoke is the only resort in the world to offer lift, cat, heli and backcountry skiing all from one base, and you’ll soon realise the scope for adventure is limitless. While Revelstoke undoubtedly favours intermediate to advanced skiers and riders, there is a good children’s beginner’s area at Turtle Creek and some lovely green runs where novices can build their confidence.

When it comes to kicking back after a great day on the slopes, the après-ski has an unpretentious and neighbourly feel with new venues popping up all the time as the resort continues to develop. We love the lively atmosphere at the Village Idiot.

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Sutton Place Hotel

Rest your head We feature just one hotel in Revelstoke: the magnificent Sutton Place Hotel. As the resort’s flagship property, it offers unbeatable accommodation and facilities. e Sutton Place Hotel boasts the perfect location within the resort village, allowing you to step out of the door in the morning and hop straight onto the Revelation Gondola for easy access to the best of the mountain’s slopes. Relax in beautiful, open-plan luxury suites, drink in stunning views across the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain ranges, and enjoy the freedom of being able to cook for yourself or dine in the hotel’s fantastic Rockford Wok, Bar & Grill.

Adam

Ski Specialist

HHHH PLUS

is amazing luxury ski-in/ski-out condo-style hotel sits at the base of the mountain beside the Revelation Gondola and only a few minutes from downtown Revelstoke. It features three interlinked buildings, all with easy access to the resort’s world-class skiing and facilities. From the moment you walk into the amazing double height lobby you’ll feel relaxed and at home. ere are 205 beautifully appointed condo-style units each with a kitchenette or fully equipped kitchen, washer-dryer, gas fireplace, balcony, TV and iPod docking station. ere are three excellent on-site dining and après-ski venues – e Rockford Wok/Bar/Grill, e Mackenzie Common Tavern and La Baguette • Studios to 3 bedroom Suites • Units with kitchens • Day spa, pool and hot tubs • Ski-in/ski-out prime location • Restaurants and bar

With a tenure covering 500,000 acres of legendary Columbia Mountain Range terrain backed up by as much as 60 feet of snowfall per winter, Revelstoke offers an unforgettable ‘1 Day Powder Excursion’ heli-ski package with Selkirk Tangiers Heli-Skiing which surely has to be on every keen skier’s bucket list. Call us for full details and prices.

You’ll find full information on Revelstoke, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

PANORAMA BRITISH COLUMBIA

It’s easy to see why Panorama is one of British Columbia’s most popular ski holiday destinations. It perfectly blends the intimacy of a relaxed ski-in/ski-out resort with the adventure of wide open spaces and endless mountain vistas.

ALT IT U DE

3773-8038 feet SKI AREA

2975 acres VERTI CA L

4265 feet SNOWFALL

16 feet (average) SEASON

Early December - Mid April TERRAIN

Beginner 20% Intermediate 55% Advanced 25% AIR PORT

Calgary 3:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Panorama’s quiet ski slopes are a dream for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. Beginners can master the basics on wide, gentle slopes and enjoy lessons with the resort’s fantastic ski school, while families love the lack of lift queues and the easy access to the slopes - 75% of which are suitable for beginners or intermediates.

Laidback Panorama is one of the most convenient mountain resorts in our Canadian selection. From cosy ski-in/ski-out accommodation to a wonderful choice of low-key shops and eateries right on your doorstep, this scenic village is the perfect place to relax. While the atmosphere in Panorama is undoubtedly chilled, there are plenty of high-octane activities on the menu - think snowcat rides, heli-skiing, snowmobiling, fat biking and night skiing. Or if you’d rather sink into the unhurried pace of Panorama life, why not try a moonlit snowshoe hike, a spin around the outdoor ice rink or a blissful soak in the resort’s slopeside hot pools?

While this is a lovely, hassle-free resort for novices and younger skiers, we think Panorama really comes into its own with its vast ski terrain. Featuring a dizzying 4,265 vertical feet and 2,975 acres of uncrowded slopes, you can experience that exquisitely remote backcountry feel without heading off-piste into unpatrolled terrain. e former heliskiing area of Taynton Bowl is the jewel in Panorama’s crown. Now accessible by lift, it’s the place to go for exhilarating black diamond runs, hidden powder stashes and that intoxicating top-of-the-world feeling.

As evening falls, unwind in one of Panorama’s inviting bars and eateries. From casual log smokehouses serving delicious local meats and craft beers to elegant restaurants with contemporary Canadian menus and beautiful mountain views, there’s a great choice of welcoming après-ski options.

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Iona

Ski Specialist

Panorama is renowned for its boutique alpine dining scene, and this year the resort kicked things up a notch with the addition of the first snowcat food truck in Canada. A professional kitchen installed on a Prinoth snow groomer, the Snowlicious Mobile Kitchen offers a casual alfresco experience right on the slopes.

Upper Village Premium Condos HHHH

Panorama’s top rated lodging units are the Upper Village Premium condos in the Taynton Lodge, Panorama Springs Lodge, 1000 Peaks and Summit buildings. ese units are skiin/ski-out or slopeside, adjacent to the superb Panorama Springs water park, the village centre and a very short walk to the kids ski school and childcare facility.

• Spacious lounges with fireplace • Studios, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom Condos • Fully equipped kitchens • Balconies with views • Complimentary WiFi

Upper Village Gold Condos HHH PLUS

Panorama’s more modestly appointed Upper Village Gold condos are all located in the skiin/ski-out Ski Tip and Tamarack buildings close to the Panorama Springs water park, and are only a short slide down to the centre of the village. All guests have full access to the facilities at Panorama Springs water park. Gold rated units are Panorama’s middle grade of accommodation.

• Lounges with fireplace and sofabed • Studios, 1 & 2 Bedroom Condos • Fully equipped kitchens • Balconies with views • Excellent value for money

Rest your head With the relaxed atmosphere in Panorama in mind, we’ve handpicked a stellar selection of accommodation in convenient slopeside locations. Once you’ve arrived, everything you need for a fantastic holiday is just a stone’s throw away. For a luxurious experience, our premium four-star condos offer spacious selfcatered accommodation with every home comfort you can imagine. Not to mention plenty of comforts you won’t find at home, such as outdoor hot tubs, balconies with breath-taking views and easy access to the ski slopes and lifts. Larger groups will love Panorama’s impressive private townhomes, ideal for family socialising. Occupying tranquil riverside locations and boasting fully equipped multi-level accommodation, this is relaxed mountain living at its best.

Specialty Townhomes HHH PLUS

Panorama’s excellent Specialty Townhomes offer something additional to the resort's already impressive lodging mix. Townhomes are all multi-level units, which are big and spacious and work really well for families or groups of friends. ey offer flexible bedding formats, and in most units at least one of the bedrooms offers two beds.

• Quiet riverside or slopeside location • Walk to pedestrian gondola • 2 & 3 bedroom multi-level units • Access to Panorama Springs water park • Lounge with fireplace and sofabed

You’ll find full information on Panorama, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

Your guide to

the ski essentials Discover North America’s world-class mountain products that we can be book for you before you leave. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Lift tickets, lessons, rentals and more…

Choosing the right ski essentials for your ski holiday can throw up lots of questions, especially if you’re new to the North America ski experience. Luckily, our expert team of Ski Specialists have tried and tested everything for you and are on hand to guide and advise.

W

e have a whole department tasked with

Equipment rentals

contracting and administering our

We have great contacts with local suppliers of

North America ski essentials, ensuring the best

ski and snowboard equipment hire in our North

prices and up-to-date information for our clients.

American resorts who offer a fantastic range of

With such an experienced bunch of brains to

discounted equipment based on age and skill

pick – including a few former ski instructors –

level. Many will drop off your rental equipment

selecting the best lift ticket option, right snow

to your hotel and pick it up again at the end of

school lesson or most suitable equipment rentals

your holiday for the ultimate in convenience.

becomes a breeze.

Exclusive features Snow school lessons Whether you’re a complete novice or want to

Make your trip extra special with one of North America’s unique mountain experiences. Travel

fine-tune your skills, North America boasts some

by helicopter or snowcat into the most pristine

excellent snow schools. The resorts here tend to

reaches of the backcountry for unforgettable guided adventures. Sign up for the hugely popular ‘Big White Masters Weeks’ (week-long programmes of lessons and events for passionate skiers and riders over the age of 50), or learn the technical art of steep skiing in Whistler with an Extremely Canadian Steep Ski clinic. Just ask our team for more details.

co-ordinate your entire mountain experience, so you’ll usually find just one snow school per resort. Within that school, a huge range of lessons to suit all skill levels, ages and even genders will be available.

Lift tickets We offer pre-bookable discounted lift tickets in every North American resort we feature, many with exclusive offers which need booked by

The Ski Independence price guarantee We always discount our ski essentials, offering

certain deadlines. To say there is a lot of choice

significant savings on in-resort prices, many of

would be an understatement, but please be

them exclusive to Ski Independence. Should you

assured that we will advise you what the best

find the same products for a lower price

option will be.

elsewhere, please let us know and we will match or beat that price.

Main image: All kitted out for the slopes Left: Getting ready for ski school in Sunshine Village, Banff Right: Taking to the skies with Whistler Heli-Skiing

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

BRECKENRIDGE COLORADO

Lively Breckenridge epitomises the USA ski experience - big powder, big terrain and big energy. Set high in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, this iconic resort offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding across five peaks and some of the wildest après-ski in North America.

ALT IT U DE

9600-12998 feet SKI AREA

2908 acres VERTI CA L

3398 feet SNOWFALL

25 feet (average) SEASON

Early November - Late May TERRAIN

Beginner 11% Intermediate 31% Advanced 58% AIR PORT

Denver 2:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

e huge ski area extends across five separate linked peaks (creatively named Peaks 6 to 10), each with their own character. With a total of 2,908 acres of high-altitude terrain, as well as some phenomenal off-piste and no less than four terrain parks, there’s so much to explore. And the long snow season gives you plenty of time to do just that.

Dating back to the 1800s, this historic town - known as ‘Breck’ by the locals - is full of life. e charming downtown architecture harks back to its gold-rush heritage and you’ll be able to enjoy a drink in a real saloon bar.

Breckenridge is a great place to learn as the lower slopes of Peaks 6 to 9 are home to gentle, groomed greens and there’s a ski school programme that’s second to none. Intermediates can tackle the mid-sections of the peaks, where you’ll find picturesque gladed trails perfect for cruising. Peak 10 caters exclusively to expert skiers and riders with a challenging selection of single and double black diamond runs, but you’ll also find advanced terrain above the treeline on all five peaks. e vast, high alpine snow bowls with boundless vistas of the mighty Rockies are out of this world.

You can taste adventure in the air in Breckenridge, and that’s reflected in the huge number of thrilling activities on offer - from hot air balloons to a 2,500ft mountain coaster. ere’s also a packed calendar of events throughout the year, such as the International Snow Sculpture Championships in January and the Viking-inspired Ullr Fest in December. e free-living Breckenridge atmosphere certainly extends to its energetic selection of après-ski, with over 80 nightspots ready to welcome you with open arms. A visit to e Gold Pan Saloon, which claims to be the oldest bar in the USA (west of the Mississippi), is a must.

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One Ski Hill Place HHHH PLUS

One Ski Hill Place offers elegant condo accommodation and awesome leisure facilities, in a stunning ski-in/ski-out location on Peak 8.

• Studios to 4 bedroom Condos • Indoor bowling alley • Gondola and shuttle access to town

Blue Sky Breckenridge HHHH PLUS

is luxury condo property has great facilities in a relaxed, quiet setting and with the added convenience of direct on-mountain access.

• Slopeside on Peak 9 • 1 bedroom to 4 bedroom Den • Outdoor pool & hot tubs

Crystal Peak Lodge HHHH

Enjoy stunning views and direct access to the mountain via Peak 7’s Independence Super Chair or the BreckConnect Gondola to Peak 8.

• Outdoor hot tubs • 1, 2 & 3 bedroom Condos • Gondola and shuttle access to town

Mountain Thunder Lodge HHHH

ese popular luxury self-catered condos are in a superb ski-in position at the base of the gondola on Peak 8. Main Street is a 5 minute walk away.

• 1 to 3 bedroom units • Fully equipped kitchens • Outdoor pool & hot tubs

Beaver Run Resort HHH PLUS

Rest your head ere’s nothing better after an invigorating day on the slopes than retiring to comfortable accommodation with a welldeserved touch of luxury. If you love the home-from-home feel of a condo, we feature some amazing choices to suit all budgets, several boasting enviable ski-in/ski-out positions at the base of the peaks. Luxurious amenities include concierge service, spa facilities and heated outdoor decks for stargazing. If you prefer a full-service hotel, Breckenridge is home to some real beauties, established by trusted high-end brands like Hilton.

Enjoy fantastic leisure facilities, stylish rooms and superb dining.

is self-contained 500 room resort has a fantastic ski-in/ski-out location at the base of Peak 9 and offers a host of impressive amenities.

• Hotel rooms, suites and condos • Restaurants and bars • Two pools & 7 hot tubs

Pine Ridge Condominiums HHH PLUS

Located slopeside on the Four O'Clock run from Peak 8, the lifts at Peak 9 and Main Street are a five minute walk or short shuttle ride away.

• 1 to 2 bedroom Loft Condos • Units with flexible bed layouts • Great value for money

DoubleTree by Hilton Breckenridge

Nick

Product Manager

Skiing at Breckenridge requires the purchase of an EPIC Pass. There’s multiple options to choose from depending on duration and flexibility needed, but we’re on hand to advise you on which pass best suits your specific requirements. All EPIC Passes are on sale for a limited period only, require full payment at time of booking and early booking is essential.

HHH PLUS

Breckenridge's premier full service hotel offers guests a wide range of facilities including a gym, indoor swimming pool, hot tubs and restaurant.

• Rooms with flexible bedding styles • Slopeside at base of Peak 9 • Fitness centre & sauna

You’ll find full information on Breckenridge, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

VAIL COLORADO

With jaw-dropping terrain, an impressive powder record, over 300 days of sunshine a year and exceptional luxury hotels, glamorous Vail more than deserves its reputation as one of the best ski destinations in the world.

ALT IT U DE

8120-11570 feet SKI AREA

5289 acres VERTI CA L

3450 feet SNOWFALL

30 feet (average) SEASON

Late November - Late April TERRAIN

Beginner 18% Intermediate 29% Advanced 53% AIR PORT

Denver 2:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

If you love perfectly groomed terrain, Vail has the most in the world and with 5,289 acres of pristine packed powder, ranging from gentle tree-lined greens to exhilarating black diamonds, you need never ski the same run twice. e entire front face of the mighty Vail Mountain has an easy trail option at the top of each lift, so mixed groups and beginners can safely explore the full elevation.

Vail is a large resort famous for its unabashed luxury. e Tirolean-inspired Vail Village was the resort’s charming original base, gradually expanding along the valley to include the contemporary Lionshead and peaceful Golden Peak areas, as well as more secluded spots beside Gore Creek. Both Vail Village and Lionshead boast traffic-free heated streets, an eclectic choice of restaurants and shops, and some rather glitzy après-ski venues. Don’t worry if you prefer down-to-earth hangouts, there are several local tap rooms and bars where you can relax beside a cosy log fire.

Fans of off-piste skiing and riding should venture over to the back side of the mountain to explore Vail’s legendary Back Bowls. With seven miles of powdery wilderness to play in, this is some of the most incredible inbounds backcountry terrain we’ve ever seen. From the Back Bowls, you can then try the challenging runs in Blue Sky Basin, the most remote of all Vail’s terrain. e sweeping views of the surrounding Gore and Sawatch mountain ranges from these lofty slopes will take your breath away.

Families and non-skiers can enjoy a huge range of activities away from the slopes. Soak up the stunning scenery from the comfort of a four-track snowcoach, horse-drawn sleigh or alpine spa. Try your hand at dog sledding, tubing, hot air ballooning or winter horseback riding. Or why not visit one of the resort’s three picturesque outdoor ice rinks?

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Four Seasons Resort Vail HHHHH

is spectacular property is of the highest quality, with service to match, and a range of impressive facilities, alls backed by a world-class brand.

• Hotel Rooms to 6 bedroom Residences • Full spa & health club • Shuttle service and ski concierge

The Arrabelle at Vail Square HHHHH

is luxury hotel combines the timeless elegance of Europe’s grand resorts with the romance and world-class style of Vail’s alpine heritage.

• Slopeside next to the Eaglebahn Gondola • Hotel Rooms to 5 bedroom Condos • RockResorts Spa

Lodge at Vail HHHH PLUS

Luxurious yet unpretentious, e Lodge at Vail combines the elegance and charm of an alpine inn with the warmth of western hospitality.

• 7500 sqft RockResorts Spa • Hotel Rooms to 6 bedroom Chalets • Beautiful restaurant & bar

Hotel Talisa HHHH PLUS

Vail’s newest luxury hotel, the fully renovated Hotel Talisa, is located along Gore Creek at the foot of Vail Mountain, right beside Chair 20.

• Infinity pool & hot-tubs • Restaurant & bar • Ski-in/lift-out

The Sebastian at Vail HHHH PLUS

e 207 room Sebastian is a luxury hotel in central Vail Village, offering superb facilities, exquisite accommodation and a great ambience.

• Full service spa • Two restaurants and bar • Ski valet at Gondola One

Tivoli Lodge HHHH

Rest your head Vail boasts a truly luxurious portfolio of accommodation, from five-star hotels to spacious condos and private homes. Many of our featured options are situated in stunning slopeside locations, offering the ultimate in convenience and ease. For the ski trip of a lifetime, it has to be one of Vail’s lavish five-star hotels. Guests are treated to superb first-class service, breath-taking mountain views and unrivalled facilities including indulgent spas, heated robes, ski concierges and open-air fireplaces. Vail also offers lodgings in smaller boutique hotels, some in beautifully secluded locations, as well as great value lodges and condos.

Nestled in the heart of Vail Village this familyowned, luxury ski resort has been providing friendly, caring, personal service for years.

• Lobby bar / restaurant • Two outdoor hot tubs • Short walk to Gondola One

Antlers at Vail HHH PLUS

Located in Lionshead, only 150m from Vail’s Lionshead gondola. Antlers at Vail is close to a good range of shops, bars and restaurants.

• Rooms with flexible bedding styles • Studios to 4 bedroom Condos • Outdoor pool & hot tubs

Evergreen Lodge

Gareth

Sales Manager

Fly daily from Heathrow direct non-stop to Denver with British Airways.

We offer the complete range of British Airways cabin upgrades for your flight to Colorado, from Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus) to Business (Club World) and First. One-way cabin upgrades are available in either direction, or double the pleasure with a return upgrade. Call us for details and current pricing.

HHH PLUS

A very popular choice, the Evergreen Lodge offers the best value hotel accommodation in Vail, without sacrificing quality or facilities.

• Lively sports bar • Pool, sauna & hot tub • Complimentary resort shuttle

You’ll find full information on Vail, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

ASPEN SNOWMASS COLORADO

Perhaps Colorado’s most prestigious ski destination, Aspen has been wowing visitors with its elegant historic town, breath-taking winter scenery and unbelievable ski terrain for years.

Whether mingling with the glitterati or the locals, this vibrant resort is simply unforgetable.

ALT IT U DE

7878-12510 feet SKI AREA

5505 acres VERTI CA L

4406 feet SNOWFALL

25 feet (average)

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

e ski area is spread across four unique peaks in the Elk mountain range: Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass and Aspen Highlands – all linked by a free shuttle bus.

Between them, they offer a mind-blowing 5,505 acres of terrain and no end of that beautiful, dry Rockies powder.

is former silver mining town’s heritage offers a fascinating cultural contrast to its modern-day luxury. From the picturesque Victorian streets lined with galleries, boutiques and restaurants, to the dramatic peaks of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, Aspen is an enchanting place to be.

Aspen Mountain is the most iconic of the four and is known for its out-of-this-world powder terrain and black diamond runs - the perfect adrenaline-fuelled playground for experienced skiers and riders. Or why not try Buttermilk, home to some world-class freestyle terrain, including an Olympic-calibre superpipe? Snowmass is the largest of the mountains, and popular among families with its gorgeous groomed runs, award-winning ski school and ski-in/ski-out resort base. In contrast, Aspen Highlands has a more remote feel, being home to the resort’s best off-piste terrain. Head to Highland’s Bowl to experience the ultimate backcountry.

e après in Aspen is almost as exciting as the skiing, from chic, high-end establishments to bohemian bars full of laidback local character. e thriving live music scene attracts anyone, from blues icons to international pop stars.

SEASON

Late November - Late April TERRAIN

Beginner 16% Intermediate 43% Advanced 41% AIR PORT

Denver 5:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

ere’s just so much to do in Aspen: explore the snow-laden forests of the backcountry by snowshoe or sleigh; soar high above the resort with a hot air balloon or paragliding experience; or visit the Aspen Recreation Centre for swimming, rock climbing, ice-skating and tobogganing.

Everywhere you’ll find a genuinely friendly welcome.

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The Little Nell HHHHH

Aspen’s flagship hotel effortlessly manages to blend the virtues of a country inn with the indulgences of a luxury full-service hotel • Ski-in/ski-out luxury • Great choice of restaurants • The peerless Ajax Tavern

Hotel Jerome HHHHH

An elegant Aspen classic, highly recommended for guests who require a luxury hotel with personalised service and unrivalled ambience.

• Historic J-Bar saloon • 92 Guest Rooms & Suites • Outdoor pool & hot tubs

Viceroy Snowmass HHHHH

is superb, ski-in/ski-out, full-service luxury hotel, sits in an ideal location close to the Elk Camp and Village Express lifts.

• Hotel Rooms to 4 bedroom Suites • Full spa & health club • Amazing restaurant & bar

Limelight Hotel Aspen HHHHH PLUS

is recently refurbished hotel has a stylish modern feel, with bright, airy interiors, and an emphasis on friendly attentive service.

• Outdoor pool & hot tubs • Shuttle service and ski concierge • Includes daily breakfast

Limelight Hotel Snowmass HHHH PLUS

Sister property to the well-established Limelight Hotel Aspen, this takes the brand to the next level with its family-friendly cool new vibe.

• Climbing wall & ice rink • 99 rooms & 11 residences • Includes daily breakfast

The Gant HHHH

Rest your head Aspen has a reputation for exclusive luxury accommodation. But while there are undoubtedly some exceptional full-service fivestar hotels, the resort boasts a range of lodging whether you’re dreaming of the ultimate in opulence or a comfortable and convenient family base.

We’ve hand-picked the very best hotels and condos in both Aspen town and the modern, purpose-built Snowmass resort, around 15km to the west. From lovingly-restored historic buildings steeped in elegant ambiance to cosy boutique mountain lodges, all bring you first-rate facilities and unparalleled access to Aspen’s slopes.

One of the best places to stay in Aspen, with its range of excellent condos, e Gant is consistently our best-selling Aspen property.

• 1 to 4 bedroom Condos • Nice pools & hot tubs • Legendary Gant shuttle service

The Crestwood HHHH

Offering excellent ski-in/ski-out convenience and unmatched hospitality at the base of Snowmass, all 140 condos are finished to a high standard.

• 1 to 4 bedroom Condos • Pool, hot tubs & gym • Family-friendly

Molly Gibson Lodge

Pete

Overseas Operations Manager

No visit to Aspen would be complete without an adventure on Highlands Bowl. Although not for the faint-hearted, and most definitely for advanced skiers and boarders only, there’s a lung-busting 45 minute hike up the ridge to reach the summit at 12,392ft (3559m). Fully off-piste and pitched to perfection, this is big-mountain skiing at its best.

HHH PLUS

is is one of Aspen’s nicest boutique hotels, offering luxury lodging, superb facilities and a special ambience, all at an affordable price.

• Outdoor pool & hot tubs • 53 beautiful rooms • Includes daily breakfast

You’ll find full information on Aspen Snowmass, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

The North American dream:

take to the road Why choose just one destination when you can visit two, three or even four? All you have to do is dream big. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

Our team’s Top 5 North American road trips.

>> Tailor-made multi-centre itineraries

The Rockies classic

We’ve helped clients design amazing holidays that blend the thrill of

Based on Edmonton and Calgary flights and easy transfers or selfdrive car hire throughout, you can expect truly stunning Canadian Rockies scenery; three amazing ski resorts, in Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise; and three iconic Fairmont hotels. Extend the trip from Jasper to Vancouver on ‘The Canadian’ – an overnight luxury train service.

skiing or snowboarding in North America with everything from epic

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road trips and glamorous city breaks in Vancouver or Las Vegas, to sunbathing on tropical Hawaiian beaches.

S

ome ski resorts lend themselves beautifully to a multi-centre holiday. Take Banff, Lake

Louise and Jasper in the stunning Canadian

Big mountain BC adventure

province of Alberta – three amazing ski

Based on Calgary flights with selfdrive car rental, this adventurous itinerary is for guests looking for a more advanced skiing experience.

Taking in Panorama, Kicking Horse and Revelstoke, you can extend the adventure with Banff at the start and/or Whistler to finish for a true Trans-Canadian epic.

destinations linked by one of the most breath-

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taking road trips in the world. Drive through the spectacular other-worldly landscape of the Icefields Parkway, where once cascading waterfalls appear frozen mid-tumble and ancient glaciers sit amongst soaring peaks and rock spires, dramatic canyons and vast emerald lakes.

There’s a new, unmissable panorama around

British Columbia at its best Fly into Kelowna and home from Kamloops, or vice versa, using transfers throughout to create a central BC ski odyssey to two amazing destinations: Big White and Sun Peaks. Add Silver Star into to triple the fun, or Revelstoke for additional heli-ski options!

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The Colorado odyssey

every bend in the road.

With the rise of the multi-centre itinerary comes the concept of the multi-resort ski pass, as destinations across the globe join together to help facilitate your perfect adventure. The Epic and Ikon Passes, for example, offer unlimited skiing and riding in a choice of iconic global ski areas making it simple and easy to ski several resorts on one lift ticket.

no rules here. Follow a ski holiday in Heavenly, Lake Tahoe with city breaks in San Francisco, Los Angeles or Las Vegas, or combine the slopes of Killington with the sights of the Big Apple.

Creating tailor-made multi-centre itineraries is one of the most exciting things we do. This is where we can encourage you to let your imagination run wild as we transform your holiday dreams into reality.

Road trips and multi-centre itineraries There are many, many great road-trips and multi-centre options to consider but we’ve listed

Imperial Express, Blue Sky Basin and Highland’s Bowl all on the same trip! This easy triple centre trip of Aspen, Breckenridge and Vail is based on Denver flights and transfers. Take a self-drive SUV and Copper, Keystone and Beaver Creek all come into the picture to create a mega-multi-centre!

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our top 5 recommended options to whet your appetite. Some multi-centre adventures will link with transfers, some need a self-drive car and some connect by train or require an extra flight or even a fully winterized motorhome – our Ski Specialists have the expert knowledge to advise you on what works, and how it can be done in the most effective way.

California dreamin’ Fly into San Francisco and head up to Lake Tahoe for some Palisades powder at Squaw Valley and Heavenly, before skirting the Sierra Nevada to Mammoth to shred California’s biggest and best. Drive back down to LA and fly home, or continue down to San Diego – the choice is yours.

5

Remember that our website features a much

The perfect stopover

larger selection of resorts throughout North

Sometimes the juxtaposition of a stylish city

America, and we can also advise on stays in

stopover with your thrilling alpine experiences

other cities, alternative ski resorts and even

can be just the ticket. Pairing a ski holiday in

different countries. Call one of our Ski Specialists

Whistler with a city break in vibrant Vancouver

on 0131 243 8097 to discuss your individually

is one of our most popular options but there are

tailored itinerary options.

Main image: Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper Left: Off piste in Aspen Snowmass Right: California dreamin’ in Squaw Valley

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

PARK CITY UTAH

Park City in the western Rockies is now the USA’s biggest ski area after recently linking with neighbouring resort e Canyons. Boasting a glorious 7,300 acres of varied ski terrain (that’s more than Vail and Beaver Creek combined), this is a truly outstanding destination.

ALT IT U DE

6800-10000 feet SKI AREA

7300 acres VERTI CA L

3200 feet SNOWFALL

30 feet (average) SEASON

Late November - Mid April TERRAIN

Beginner 8% Intermediate 47% Advanced 45% AIR PORT

Salt Lake City 0:45 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

With 348 trails, eight terrain parks, 13 powder bowls, a fantastic family fun zone and bountiful amounts of Utah’s acclaimed light, dry snow, Park City is unbeatable when it comes to varied skiing and snowboarding. e lower slopes are a beginner’s paradise, delivering wide, gentle tree-lined runs. Mid-mountain you’ll find a great choice of easy and intermediate runs perfect for building confidence and skiing as a mixed group. At the top section of the mountain you’ll find challenging double black diamond runs, exhilarating hike-to-terrain and superb views of the Wasatch mountains.

Historic downtown Park City, known as Treasure Mountain during the silver mining boom, is full of character. It’s a lovely place for a stroll, with quirky little boutiques, cafes and delis. When the sun goes down, the myth of Utah being a ‘dry state’ is swiftly debunked with Park City’s colourful collection of over 100 lively bars and restaurants.

If you’re after some great cruising runs, e Canyons is the place to go, with its longer runs and lovely gladed areas if you fancy a go at tree skiing. And if all that mileage isn’t quite enough, a separate lift ticket gives you access to neighbouring Deer Valley, which offers spectacular skiing, though, sadly, snowboarding isn’t allowed.

Over the years, the resort has expanded to include modern developments at both the Park City and Canyons Village ski bases, offering convenient slopeside accommodation and contemporary luxury. Both bases feature a variety of aprèsski, from stylish hotel lounges to saloon-inspired distilleries.

As you might expect from a resort of this size, there’s a huge menu of non-skiing activities, including bobsleighing, dog sledding, cat-skiing and winter fly fishing. Don’t miss a ride on the Park City Alpine Coaster, one of the world’s longest toboggan runs, for a pure hit of adrenaline.

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Grand Summit Canyons Village HHHHH

is is the flagship property at Canyons Village, combining liveable luxury and a wide range of amenities for an exceptional guest experience.

• Ski-in/ski-out luxury • Huge outdoor pool complex • Studios to 4 Bedroom penthouses

Waldorf Astoria Park City HHHHH

is elegant hotel offers refined luxury in a relaxed setting, just below the Grand Summit.

It even has its own dedicated Waldorf Gondola!

• Powder restaurant & bar • 175 Rooms & Suites • Spa, pool & hot tubs

Hotel Park City HHHH PLUS

You’ll enjoy first-class service and facilities at the Hotel Park City. Relax and unwind in the heated outdoor pool or enjoy the sauna or steam room.

• Suites with kitchens • Full spa & health club • Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Sundial Lodge HHHH

Inspired by Utah’s grand mountain lodges and unique landscape, Sundial Lodge sits in a great position in the heart of Canyons Village.

• Hotel Rooms to 2 bedroom Lofts • Outdoor pool & hot tubs • Units with kitchens

DoubleTree by Hilton Park City HHH PLUS

Rest your head From fabulous five-star hotels offering refined luxury, unparalleled facilities and the most attentive service to cosy mountain lodges and condos offering excellent value and spacious living, our featured Park City accommodation doesn’t disappoint. Many of our hotels are nestled right next to the slopes, so that all you have to worry about in the morning is enjoying a hearty breakfast, clipping on your skis or board, and gliding off to enjoy another amazing day on the slopes.

You could also choose lodgings with a vibrant downtown location in the heart of Park city’s best bars and restaurants. e choice is all yours.

e hotel offers 182 rooms and suites, and is only a few minutes from the Park City ski area and Main Street via the free resort shuttle.

• Pool & hot tub • Restaurant & bar • Includes daily breakfast

Park City Peaks Hotel HHH PLUS

is modern, newly renovated, independently run resort-style hotel offers guests convenient access to everything Park City has to offer.

• Indoor/outdoor pool • Restaurant, bar & cafe • Free shuttle service

Snow Flower Condos

Karen

Senior Ski Specialist

Clouds full of moisture move east from the Pacific Ocean, across the desert to Utah. As the clouds move across the desert, the heat bakes out much of their moisture. When the clouds meet Utah’s ski resorts, the remaining moisture rapidly cools and condenses, and falls as a deep, white powder snow that’s particularly light and dry. Champagne powder!

HHH PLUS

ese condos are so close to the slopes - walk out the door, clip on your skis and glide 100m to the ree Kings, First Time or Eagle chairlifts.

• Studio to 4 bedroom Condos • Pools & hot tub • Units with kitchens

You’ll find full information on Park City, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

JACKSON HOLE WYOMING

Nestled amongst Wyoming’s dramatic Teton Mountains sits a ski resort like no other. With its irresistible blend of authentic cowboy culture and spectacular big mountain terrain, Jackson Hole has grown from little-known cult hero into one of the top US ski destinations.

ALT IT U DE

6,311-10,450 feet SKI AREA

2,500 acres VERTI CA L

4,139 feet SNOWFALL

38 feet (average)

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Prepare to be spoilt for choice. Jackson Hole boasts an epic 2,500 acres of awesome terrain spread over two mountains Rendezvous and Après Vous - and a further 3,000 acres of beautiful backcountry powder. at’s 133 runs, with an impressive 4,139 foot vertical drop.

Resort life in Jackson Hole takes place in two separate bases.

Located at the foot of the ski area, Teton Village is a charming purpose-built mountain resort with some superb luxury hotels. Just 12 miles down the road you’ll find the lively cowboy town of Jackson, home to bags of authentic Western heritage and some pretty raucous après-ski.

SEASON

Late November - Early April TERRAIN

Beginner 10% Intermediate 40% Advanced 50% AIR PORT

Jackson Hole Airport (hrs:mins) to Jackson town 0:10 to Teton Village 0:30 Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

With an incredible 75 black or double black diamond runs, Jackson Hole is best suited to intermediate and expert skiers and riders, with the vast majority of runs requiring some experience. Rendezvous Mountain is where you’ll find the most exhilarating terrain, with steep chutes, snowy glades, thrilling fall-line trails and plenty of opportunity to test your skills - and your nerve! Après Vous has more accessible slopes, with some gorgeous wide open groomers and pretty, tree-lined runs just made for cruising. Intermediates can happily build up their confidence while soaking up the stunning scenery.

With a wealth of activities to enjoy, Jackson Hole is never dull. Explore the pristine backcountry terrain with an unforgettable heli or cat-skiing experience, a relaxed snowshoe hike or a luxurious sleigh ride. You’ll find a good choice of restaurants, shops and bars in both bases, but Jackson town is undoubtedly the livelier resort. Expect huge fun after the sun goes down, as locals and visitors meet and mingle for drinks, dancing and live music in the town’s good-time bars and saloons.

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Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole HHHHH

Excellent luxury accommodation at the base of the gondola, just steps from Jackson Hole’s world-class skiing and riding.

Ski-in/ski-out luxury Huge outdoor pool complex 3 restaurants & bar

Snake River Lodge & Spa HHHH PLUS

A stunning hotel in Teton Village, Snake River Lodge & Spa offers luxury accommodation at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

• Huge spa & fitness centre • Ski-in/ski-out location • Hotel rooms & residences

Hotel Terra HHHH is eco-friendly, slopeside, boutique hotel, sits close to the gondola and tram at the base of the mountain. Great views from the rooftop hot tub!

• Eco-friendly ethos • Spa, pool & rooftop hot tub • Great restaurant & bar

Teton Mountain Lodge HHHH

is is a superb, slopeside hotel at the ski base in Teton Village and offers accommodation from Studios up to huge 2 bedroom Suites.

• Cascade Grill & bar • Rooftop hot tub • Units with kitchens

The Wort Hotel

Rest your head We feature a range of accommodation in both Jackson Hole bases. Modern Teton Village offers the best access to the slopes, while nearby Jackson is where you’ll find that lively cowboy atmosphere and nightlife. If it’s a full-service luxury experience you want, you’ll find several world-class slopeside hotels in Teton Village. Enjoy five-star service, exquisite rooms and suites, indulgent amenities from alpine spas to ski valets, and unrivalled access to the mountain.

Our properties in Jackson town tend to be smaller boutique hotels and inns, offering outstanding value for money and that authentic ‘Western’ experience. Ideal if you love the après just as much as the skiing.

HHHH

Located in the heart of Jackson town, e Wort Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel offering a first class service and a unique "Western" experience.

• Award-winning restaurant • Silver Dollar Bar • Includes daily breakfast

Parkway Inn HHH PLUS

is very popular choice with Ski Independence clients offers great value for money in a nice central location in the town of Jackson Hole.

• Indoor pool & hot-tub • Includes daily breakfast • Free shuttle service

Mountain Modern

Karen

Ski Specialist

As well as its legendary big mountain ski terrain, Jackson Hole also has a well-deserved reputation for the quality and quantity of its snow. It has a huge average annual snow record of 38 feet per season and last winter saw an incredible 42 feet of powder. What will winter 2019-20 bring?

Chances are, it’ll be more of the same.

HHH PLUS

Located in the heart of Jackson Hole, this new, funky, boutique property features an open plan layout with lots of useful storage for your gear.

• 2 restaurants & cafe • Includes daily breakfast • Free shuttle service

You’ll find full information on Jackson Hole, including travel and lodging options, discounted ski extras, current offers and guide pricing on www.ski-i.com

Plan your perfect

European escape The continent where it all began offers world-class skiing, bags of authentic charm, outstanding cuisine and exceptional scenery, all within easy reach of the UK. >>

Lech, Austria

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Your travel guide to Europe

Set off in the morning, travel to your destination in style and be on the slopes by midday. Sound appealing? This is just one of the many reasons for choosing to ski in Europe. With several destinations accessible from the many UK regional airports in just a few hours, you can book multiple trips throughout the season, without eating in to your precious holiday allowance.

H

ere at Ski Independence, we want every

resort. If you haven’t experienced the joy of

moment of your holiday to be enjoyable.

arriving at your ski destination of choice by rail,

We build travel options to work around you and

why not give it a try this winter? Famed for its

do all we can to ensure your journey runs as

efficiency, the Swiss rail network is a popular

smoothly as possible.

choice for many of our clients heading out to

However you wish to travel, be it air, rail or

one of our featured Swiss resorts.

self-drive, we have an option for you. Our team is happy to take care of your every need, from

Eurostar

booking airport lounge access, ski carriage and

Travelling to the Alps by train can be a relaxing

priority boarding to first class rail and helicopter

way to start your holiday as you admire the

transfers. Our Ski Specialists will take the time to

views en route. You can also maximise your

talk you through the options available and find

time on the slopes with an arrival early on

the right travel solution for you.

Saturday morning and a departure on a Saturday evening, allowing you to enjoy two

Flights

more precious days on the slopes. Eurostar is a

From Aberdeen to Southampton, we offer a

particularly good choice for those considering a

range of flight options from a choice of airports

holiday in Les Arcs, Tignes-Val d’Isère or the

across the UK. Whatever your preference, we’ll

Three Valleys.

help source the best flights to suit your needs, whether it’s with BA, SWISS, easyJet or another airline. From booking fast track security passes to extra legroom seats, our Ski Specialists will do all they can to ensure you have the best journey possible

Airport Transfers We’re keen to make your journey from the airport to resort as seamless as possible. We offer a range of tailor-made transfer possibilities, from a shared minibus option to a private luxury SUV. If you really want to speed things up, why not consider a helicopter transfer? We’ll be happy to organise this for you and you’ll find yourself on the slopes in no time!

Swiss Rail We can’t think of anything better than hopping on a train at the airport, sitting back, relaxing and enjoying the view as you make your way to

At only 80 minutes from Geneva Airport, Flaine is the ideal short break destination. Hotel Terminal Neige Totem (Page 81)

We are delighted to announce the return of our Kids Rent Free offer for Winter 19/20. Across all of our featured French resorts, for each adult renting equipment for 6 days or more, one child aged 11 or younger rents free.

If you’d like some more details about this offer, don’t hesitate to get in touch on 0131 243 8097.

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Eurotunnel A self-drive option is a perfect choice for those

The impressive Chalet Royalp & Spa in Villars has an excellent range of facilities to keep both parents and children amused.

seeking the freedom to travel at their own pace.

Eurotunnel is the easiest way to cross the Channel and takes just 35 minutes. We include a Flexiplus ticket as standard, which means that if

will be delighted to help you choose.

Whether you’re looking for unashamed

you are delayed en route for any reason, there’s

5-star luxury, unbeatable spa facilities, cosy self-

no need to worry – simply hop on the next

catering apartments or a state-of-the-art private

available crossing.

chalet, we’ve got it covered.

Accommodation

favourite properties but is not a comprehensive

Accommodation is a key element of your

guide to all the accommodation we feature.

holiday. We know how important it is to get this

Please visit our website (www.ski-i.com) to

This brochure includes a selection of our

As well as taking care of all your travel and accommodation needs, we’ll assist you with booking lift passes, ski hire and lessons for your trip. In the majority of resorts we feature in Europe, we’ll send your lift passes to you before you depart, meaning you can get on the slopes in no time!

right, which is why we have hand-picked our

browse our full collection, as well as to see

selection of hotels, apartments and private

detailed property descriptions, guide pricing,

chalets to ensure we have something to suit

photos and details of our special offers. Or why

everyone’s tastes. If you’re not sure what will

not call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

work best for your holiday, our Ski Specialists

and chat through your requirements?

Our team of Ski Specialists are experts in their field and know the resorts and properties we feature inside out. They’ll be more than happy to talk you through the merits of everything we offer, but here are some of their top picks in Europe.

Our team’s Top 3 for…

Ski-in/ski-out

Short breaks

Classic luxury

Hotel des Dromonts

Hotel Terminal Neige Totem

Hotel Rosa Alpina

Avoriaz (page 68)

Flaine (page 81)

San Cassiano (page 103)

Hotel Le Fitz Roy

Hotel Au Coeur du Village

Riffelalp Resort

Val Thorens (page 63)

La Clusaz (page 91)

Zermatt (page 97)

Le Village

Hotel Le Petit Dru

Hotel Mont Cervin Palace

Les Arcs (page 77)

Morzine (page 69)

Zermatt (page 97)

Families

Modern luxury

Wellness facilities

Residence L’Amara

Hotel W

Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti

Avoriaz (page 68)

Verbier (page 95)

Pinzolo (page 103)

Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa

Hotel Altapura

Hotel Fanes

Villars (page 99)

Val Thorens (page 63)

San Cassiano (page 103)

Hotel Les Barmes de L’Ours

Hotel Les Suites, Maison Bouvier

Hotel Le Blizzard

Val d’Isère (page 73)

Tignes (page 75)

Val d’Isère (page 73)

There’s always more

to explore Europe boasts some of the biggest and most illustrious ski areas in the world, perfect for mile-hungry skiers and snowboarders. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Europe’s largest ski areas

We can’t think of anything better than long days spent exploring the slopes to your heart’s content. Cruise glorious pistes, drop in to new valleys, discover the best lunch spots on the mountain and end your day tired, aching and totally elated.

The Three Valleys With an immense 600km of interconnected pistes, the Three Valleys is hands-down the largest ski area in the world. Revel in a huge choice of runs for all abilities and explore everything that each valley has to offer. You can happily ski and snowboard between all three valleys, visiting the resorts of Val Thorens, Méribel and Courchevel along the way. There’s even a secret fourth valley, Orelle with wonderfully quiet slopes and stunning vistas.

The Four Valleys The largest linked ski area in Switzerland

Dolomiti Superski

encompasses four valleys and six resorts,

Radiating out like spokes from the famous Sella

including chic Verbier. With 410km of varied

Ronda ski circuit, the linked valleys of the

pistes and mind-blowing views of Mont Blanc

Dolomiti Superski area total more than 500km of

and the Matterhorn, these Swiss valleys are a

sublime terrain. There’s something to suit all

real joy to explore.

levels, but the Marmolada descent is a real must

While all abilities will enjoy skiing and

for anybody visiting this ski area. Amongst the

snowboarding in the Four Valleys, the area is

valleys, you’ll find many beautiful resorts and

particularly well suited to experienced

villages, such as San Cassiano, Ortisei, Arabba

intermediates and experts. One moment you

and Santa Cristina, all nestled at the base of the

could be skiing on top of the world on the Mont Fort glacier and the next you’re taking on one of the best mogul fields in Europe under the Chassoure gondola.

Portes du Soleil Stretching from Les Gets in France all the way over to Champéry in Switzerland, the mammoth Portes du Soleil ski area delivers an unbelievable 600km of pistes (although not all of them are linked) and countless spectacular panoramas.

When the sun’s shining and the snow’s fresh, majestic Italian Dolomites. When you visit this stunning ski area, you’ll ask yourself why you waited so long to do so!

there are few places we’d rather be.

The Portes du Soleil slopes offer a fantastic variety of terrain, including the notoriously steep ‘Swiss Wall’ and some challenging offpiste. There are 12 resorts in total to dip into, including Avoriaz, Morzine, Les Gets and Châtel.

Main image: Courchevel, one of the Three Valleys.

Left: San Cassiano in the dramatic Dolomites.

Right: Verbier, gateway to The Four Valleys.

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

THE THREE VALLEYS THE LARGEST SKI AREA IN THE WORLD

Val Thorens

Explore an extraordinary 600km of pistes amongst the glorious peaks of the French Alps.

Featuring the three truly outstanding resorts of Val orens, Méribel and Courchevel, you’ll delight in exploring this epic ski area from whichever valley you choose to make your base.

ALT IT U DE

1350-3230m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

600km NUMBE R OF RUNS

332 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

50 134 117 31

AIR PORT

Geneva 2:30 - 3:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resorts

Not only is the ree Valleys ski area truly colossal, it’s also beautifully varied. Whether it’s high alpine terrain with spectacular views across the French, Swiss and Italian Alps or picturesque forest runs, skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities can find their dream pistes.

Renowned as the highest ski resort in Europe, Val orens sits at an impressive 2,300m, offering snow sure slopes and a long ski season. With world-class ski schools, a wide menu of non-skiing activities and a welcoming après-ski scene, it’s a fantastic all-rounder.

Beginners can master the basics on almost 200 gorgeous, groomed green and blue runs, with plenty of wide, open slopes for practising those turns. Intermediate and advanced skiers and riders can challenge themselves on over 100 exhilarating reds and blacks, amazing off-piste terrain and four fun snow parks.

Pretty Méribel blends modern luxury with bags of traditional charm. Set right in the heart of the ree Valleys area, this lively village offers unrivalled access to the slopes and some great après.

e constantly upgrading lift system in the ree Valleys is impeccable, with over 160 modern lifts keeping things moving smoothly and efficiently. For such a rightly popular ski area, you’ll be surprised by how much of it is queue-free.

Home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, ultra-chic Courchevel has a reputation for treating visitors to the finer things in life. From superb luxury hotels to gourmet dining, this glamorous resort is one of the most sought-after in the Alps.

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L’Apogée, Courchevel

Méribel

Hotel Barrière Les Neiges, Courchevel

Rest your head As you might expect from such a vast area, the ree Valleys boasts a wide range of accommodation options from the ultimate in extravagance to convenient self-catering.

If unrivalled luxury appeals (and why wouldn’t it?), you’ll find beautiful 5-star hotels in each of our featured resorts, many in stunning ski-in/ski-out locations. Or perhaps a fabulous luxury chalet offering every modern comfort would be your ideal place to unwind? You’ll also find a selection of smaller, family-run hotels and cosy self-catering apartments to choose from, all hand-picked to bring you high-quality accommodation and great value for money.

Morven

While our featured ree Valleys resorts can be enjoyed by all, each has a unique ambiance that will naturally appeal to different skiers and boarders.

Best for families With a huge variety of ski-in/ski-out accommodation, extensive facilities and ski school options, purpose-built Val Thorens is a great choice for a family trip to the Three Valleys. (See page 62)

Best for indulgence It’s luxury all the way in glitzy Courchevel. Stay in one of the many ultra-luxurious hotels in Courchevel 1850 or choose a secluded base in relaxed Courchevel 1650. (See page 65)

Ski Specialist

Best for après-ski There’s something magical about opening up a piste map of the Three Valleys and seeing a seemingly endless number of runs to explore. You can try to tick them all off over a week, but believe me, that’s a challenge even for the most dedicated skier. With fantastic ski schools, excellent slopeside restaurants and a great choice of accommodation it’s no wonder people return to the Three Valleys year after year.

Buzzing Méribel offers plenty of après to satisfy your inner party animal without compromising on high-quality, luxurious accommodation. (See page 64)

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

VAL THORENS THE THREE VALLEYS

Famous for its lofty 2,300m altitude, Val orens is the highest ski resort in Europe – with a snow record to match. Sitting at the head of the Belleville valley, you can expect dazzling views, a well-designed resort and doorstep access to those velvety ree Valleys slopes.

A purpose-built paradise

Ski school in Val Thorens

Val orens is an excellent example of just how well France does purpose-built resorts. With the slopes on your doorstep, it’s a convenient resort with breath-taking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Beginner or expert, skier or snowboarder, cross-country, freestyle or off-piste – whatever your passion, you’ll find some fantastic ski school options in Val orens, offering expert tuition for all ages.

Val orens makes a fantastic base for exploring the entire ree Valleys, although with a myriad 150km of local pistes, there’s plenty to explore without having to venture further afield.

ere are several ski and snowboard schools ready to show you the ropes. Choose a well-known British school such as New Generation, or a local school like Oxygène, Ski Cool or the ESF. You can join a group or treat yourself to private tuition for invaluable one-to-one instruction. Whatever you’re looking for, we’ll be happy to find the right option for you.

ere’s as much to enjoy off the slopes as on in this energetic village. Get the adrenaline pumping when you try out the longest toboggan run in France – a whopping 6km!

Or speed along the La Tyrolienne zip line for a daredevil descent with amazing views. en recover from all that excitement with a spot of relaxation in our carefully selected accommodation options.

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Hotel Altapura HHHHH

is beautiful hotel boasts excellent facilities and sits in a fantastic ski-in/ski-out location at the foot of the slopes, 400m from the resort centre.

• A favourite with Ski Independence clients • Pure Altitude spa with pool • Choice of three restaurants

Hotel Pashmina HHHHH

is luxury, slopeside refuge, overlooking the resort, has a modern, cosy feel, with beautifully designed rooms. Perfect for a relaxing break.

• Easy access to the slopes • In-house Michelin-starred restaurant • L’Occitane spa with indoor pool

Hotel Le Fitz Roy HHHHH

Hotel Le Fitz Roy sits in a prime ski-in/ski-out location at the heart of Val orens and boasts spectacular views of the slopes and mountains.

• Located in the heart of Val Thorens • Swimming pool and Carita spa • Sun terrace overlooking the slopes

Hotel Koh-I Nor HHHHH

Perched at 2364m with breathtaking views over the valley, the hotel offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites in a ski-in/ski-out position.

• Spa area with two pools • Choice of three restaurants • Sun terrace with panoramic views

Hotel Le Hameau du Kashmir HHHH

Positioned at the entrance of the resort in a skiin/ski-out position, the hotel provides spacious suites and uninterrupted views of the resort.

• A favourite with Ski Independence clients • Swimming pool and spa area • In-house ski shop

Hotel Fahrenheit Seven HHHH

With a unique, laid-back vibe, this modern property offers comfortable rooms decorated in a minimalist style with a vintage twist.

• Stunning outdoor terrace • Large dining and bar area • Extensive ski room with small bar

Residence Le Hameau du Kashmir HHHH

Karen

Ski Specialist

You may not have considered this before, but if you are a guest at the Hotel Pashmina, spending a night inside a geodesic igloo is definitely an experience not to be missed. With a private outdoor hot tub and stunning views to admire, couples will love the unique experience of spending a night under the stars warming up by the wood-burning stove inside the igloo.

Located in a sunny position at the entrance to Val orens, this residence offers stunning panoramic views and direct access to the slopes.

• Modern, self-catering apartments • Wellness area and swimming pool • Ski-in/ski-out

Residence Koh-I Nor HHHH

Boasting a fantastic ski-in/ski-out position, this property offers modern apartments with access to the adjoining hotel’s restaurants and bar.

• Modern, well-equipped apartments • Indoor pool and wellness area • Ski-in/ski-out

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Val Thorens, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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MÉRIBEL THE THREE VALLEYS

Hotel Le Kaila HHHHH

e beautifully appointed rooms and suites at this exceptional property in Méribel Centre combine the ambience of a cosy chalet with state-of-the-art modern comforts.

• Méribel’s most luxurious accommodation • Private lift to the slopes • Michelin-starred L’Ekrin Restaurant • Nuxe Spa and indoor pool • Luxury in-house ski shop

anks to an abundance of wooden chalet-style buildings, although purpose-built, pretty Méribel retains the feel of a traditional Savoyard village.

Sitting at the heart of the ree Valleys ski area and with several smart restaurants and bars, Méribel blends tradition and modernity to spectacular effect. To take advantage of everything that Méribel has to offer, opt for accommodation in Méribel Centre, which is where you’ll find the resort’s shops, bars and restaurants.

For non-skiers, there’s plenty to keep you entertained: dog sledding, snow-shoeing, winter horse riding – the list goes on and on. e resort’s Olympic Centre, built for the 1992 Winter Olympics, is the place to go for indoor activities including swimming, climbing and ice skating.

Hotel La Chaudanne HHHH

is friendly, family-run hotel boasts excellent facilities and is ideally situated in Méribel Centre, close to the Saulire and Rhodos ski lifts.

• Indoor pool and spa • In-house Brasserie Le 80 • Family-friendly rooms

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Méribel, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

Iona

Ski Specialist

Méribel is so well placed for exploring the whole of the Three Valleys.

Head over to Courchevel one day, Val Thorens the next or just make the most of the extensive local skiing available. I particularly enjoy the skiing from the top of the Mont Vallon gondola with two seriously long red runs to make your way down. Of course, no trip to Méribel is complete without a visit to the Rond Point bar, famous for its live music and après!

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COURCHEVEL THE THREE VALLEYS L’Apogée Courchevel HHHHH

is luxurious home away from home has quickly gained a reputation for providing the ultimate in luxury and first-class service.

• Prime ski-in/ski-out location • Fantastic dining options • Outstanding ski butler service

Hotel Barrière Les Neiges HHHHH

is ski-in/ski-out ultra-luxurious hotel sits at the foot of the Bellecôte ski slope, just a short walk from the heart of Courchevel 1850.

• One of the largest spas in resort • Chalet-style with a contemporary twist • Ski-in/ski-out

Hotel Le K2 Palace HHHHH

Located metres from the Cospillot slope and a short drive from the heart of Courchevel 1850, Le K2 Palace offers convenience and luxury.

• Goji spa and indoor pool • Two Michelin-starred restaurant • Family-friendly with children’s areas

Hotel Le K2 Altitude HHHHH

Made up of several interconnected chalets, the luxurious K2 Altitude enjoys an ideal location at the top of the resort, near the Altiport.

• Wellbeing centre and pool • Family-friendly facilities • Range of dining options

Unparalleled luxury and glamour, Michelin-starred dining options, 150km of exceptional local slopes there are plenty of reasons to love Courchevel.

Courchevel is made up of four separate villages, perched at varying altitudes on the mountainside. You’ll find the main hub at Courchevel 1850 – the highest, largest and most prestigious of the four – where the streets are lined with upmarket boutiques, gourmet restaurants and picturesque timber chalets. Our selection of hotels and chalets are in glamorous Courchevel 1850 and the more laid-back Courchevel 1650.

Famous for having no fewer than six Michelin-starred restaurants, the celebrated Courchevel culinary scene treats diners to incredible fine dining. ere are more relaxed options as well, including some very enthusiastic après-ski bars.

Hotel La Sivolière HHHHH

Located in the Chenus area of Courchevel 1850, La Sivolière prides itself on providing laid-back luxury with an excellent range of facilities.

• Gourmet Le 1850 Be Organic Restaurant • NURISS spa with small pool • Easy access to the slopes

Hotel Le Chabichou HHHH PLUS

Occupying a superb ski-in/ski-out position, with one of the best restaurants in Courchevel, is the family-run Hotel Le Chabichou.

• Two Michelin-starred restaurant • In-house ski shop • Indoor pool and spa

Hotel Portetta HHHH

Karen

Ski Specialist

If you’re looking for a delicious lunch on the slopes, look no further than La Cave des Creux. It’s accessed from a blue run, meaning all the family can enjoy this wonderful spot. There’s a terrace outside where you can soak up the sunshine or you can sit inside on colder days. The menu has a huge range of French cuisine with one of the specialities being their fondue (which looked delicious.) A must-visit for all!

At the base of the slopes in Courchevel 1650, this beautiful, family-friendly hotel has cosy rooms, superb cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.

• Fantastic ski-in/ski-out location • Large outdoor terrace • Italian-style restaurant Cucina Angelina

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Courchevel, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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PORTES DU SOLEIL TWELVE RESORTS, TWO COUNTRIES, ONE SKI AREA.

Avoriaz

e vast Portes du Soleil ski area spans a staggering twelve resorts on the French/Swiss border. With 600km of pistes to explore amongst the soaring snow-capped Alps, the resorts of Avoriaz, Morzine and Les Gets are firm Ski Independence favourites.

ALT IT U DE

Explore the slopes

1000-2466m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

600km NUMBE R OF RUNS

277 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

37 114 97 29

AIR PORT

Geneva 1:15 - 1:40 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

As the world’s oldest cross-border ski destination, Portes du Soleil has perfected harmonious international skiing and snowboarding. Can you imagine a more exciting adventure than beginning your day on the slopes of one country and ending up in another?

With 277 groomed runs, 30 snow parks and varied off-piste skiing, the Portes du Soleil has skiers and riders of all ages and abilities covered. Little ones as young as three can join the excellent local ski schools, and there are plenty of accessible nursery areas for novices. For intermediates, this awe-inspiring ski area is something of a paradise, with long, cruising blues and exhilarating reds galore. Advanced skiers and boarders will find plenty of challenging terrain to explore – try the infamously steep Swiss Wall if you dare!

If you’re looking to cover a lot of mileage, Portes du Soleil offers endless choice. e area’s network of pistes is linked by 196 state-of-the art ski lifts, ski buses, and even the occasional ‘petit train’.

Enjoy the resorts When it came to choosing our favourite ski resorts in the enormous Portes du Soleil area, we just had to feature the vibrant villages of Avoriaz, Morzine and Les Gets.

Ski-in/ski-out Avoriaz is a wonderfully convenient resort, offering doorstep skiing and snowboarding in modern, traffic-free surroundings. is sunny, purpose-built gem is perched high above Morzine, with dramatic clifftop views across the Alps. e year-round alpine town of Morzine has a real buzz to it, with a huge choice of activities both on and off the slopes.

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Magda

Ski Specialist

If you haven’t experienced the infamous Swiss Wall, it’s time to head out to the epic Portes du Soleil ski area. Its official name is the Pas de Chavanette but its nickname does more to conjure up the knee-trembling fear the view from the top can induce. It sits on the French-Swiss border and frequently appears on the lists of runs to do before you die. If you don’t fancy the steep descent, fear not, as you can take the chair down instead if you prefer.

Les Gets

Chalet Hotel La Bergerie, Morzine

Surrounded by scenic forests and rolling snow-covered pastures, this picturesque valley resort offers everything from dancing in your ski boots to skating with the family at the outdoor ice rink.

For a quieter vibe, the attractive village of Les Gets has a lovely, peaceful ambiance and bags of authentic French charm. With gentle, tree-lined local slopes and a handful of friendly bars and restaurants, it’s a popular choice among families and couples.

Avoriaz

Each of our featured Portes du Soleil resorts offers something slightly different. Which suits you best?

Best for doorstep skiing From its lofty position, purpose-built Avoriaz offers truly spectacular views. This is where you’ll find the highest number of ski-in/ski-out accommodation options, with a stylish choice of hotels and apartments. (See page 68)

Rest your head We’ve carefully chosen a wide range of accommodation in the Portes du Soleil area. Covering everything from luxury selfcatering apartments to great value family-run hotels, we like to think we’ve found something for everyone.

Wherever you base yourself, you can expect first-rate facilities from blissful spas to delicious dining options, and glorious views of this scenic corner of the Alps.

Décor varies from the traditional Savoyard aesthetic to sleek contemporary interiors, and many properties boast fantastic slopeside locations.

Best for après-ski Buzzing Morzine certainly delivers when it comes to atmosphere. Enjoy authentic accommodation in a traditional alpine market town, with all the mingling, dining, shopping and partying that entails. (See page 69)

Best for charm Les Gets has charm in bucket loads. The characterful streets lined with traditional Savoyard chalet buildings will please anyone looking for an authentically pretty alpine retreat. (Please visit our website at www.ski-i.com/france/les-gets)

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AVORIAZ PORTES DU SOLEIL

Residence L’Amara HHHH

Perfect for families and a firm favourite with our clients, this ski-in/ski-out residence is located close to shops, bars and restaurants.

• Indoor pool and spa • Stunning views • On-site ski shop

Hotel des Dromonts HHHH

One of the most iconic properties in Avoriaz, this quirky, ski-in/ski-out hotel houses a lounge with an open fireplace and two restaurants.

• Pure Altitude Spa • Excellent half board • Ideal for short breaks

With a sensational clifftop location, Avoriaz offers convenient doorstop skiing and acts as the gateway to the enormous Portes du Soleil ski area. ere are few places that boast more spectacular vistas than those you’ll find from your Avoriaz balcony. Watching the sun set behind the dramatic silhouette of the Alps is the stuff ski holiday dreams are made of. Views aside, Avoriaz also offers fantastic ski-in/ski-out access, allowing you to explore the slopes of the Avoriaz area and beyond.

Families love the compact nature of Avoriaz. With car-free streets, horsedrawn sleigh is the rather magical main mode of transport. Activity-wise, you’ve got everything from swimming in the tropical indoor water park to the unusual alpine activity of ski joering, where you’re towed behind a horse on your skis.

Residence Atria-Crozats HHH PLUS

ese modern, family-friendly apartments offer panoramic views and are located at the foot of the slopes in an excellent ski-in/ski-out location.

• Small spa on-site (fee applies) • Bakery delivery service available • Children’s play area on site

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Avoriaz, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

Michael

Managing Director

I can personally recommend Avoriaz as a great resort for families as I’ve been going there for many years with my three children – in fact, we’ve already booked again for Easter 2020. We’ve always stayed at L’Amara which offers spacious apartments and amenities include a very nice pool and spa plus two on-site ski shops and restaurants.

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MORZINE PORTES DU SOLEIL

e bustling alpine town of Morzine has a great atmosphere all year round, with people flocking to enjoy the resort’s authentic French charm.

Spread across the valley floor at an altitude of 1,000m, Morzine boasts beautiful views and is also a rather attractive town, with lots of wooden chalets, traditional stone buildings, and cosy bars and restaurants.

As a genuine mountain town, there’s loads to do in Morzine. Try night-time tobogganing or Nordic walking. Shop for Savoyard cheese and charcuterie at the local market, or watch the Morzine ice hockey team, the Penguins, in action. And let’s not forget the lively Morzine après. Head to Bar Robinson, one of the oldest bars in town, for a demi (half-pint) of Mutzig, the rather potent Alsace beer.

Chalet Hotel La Bergerie HHHH

is charming, family-run hotel is perfect for families and sits on a peaceful street in the heart of Morzine, close to the Pleney gondola.

• Outdoor pool, sauna and steam room • Rooms with kitchenette available • Children’s games room on site

Hotel Le Samoyède HHH PLUS

is hotel enjoys a fantastic location in the heart of Morzine, opposite the tourist office and just a few minutes’ walk from the lifts.

• Ideal for short breaks • Spa area • Excellent restaurant

Hotel Le Petit Dru HHH PLUS

Adam

Ski Specialist

Hiring skis in Morzine is really easy. There’s a Skiset shop right next to the Super Morzine gondola where you can also store your equipment overnight free of charge. It makes hitting the slopes in the morning a breeze and because you don’t need to carry your skis home at the end of the day, you’re free to make the most of the après Morzine has to offer!

Enjoying a peaceful location and with excellent facilities including an indoor/outdoor pool, this hotel is perfect for couples, families and groups.

• Ideal for short breaks • Restaurant and bar with open fire • Spa area

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Morzine, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

It’s time to

hit the heights Let us introduce you to Europe’s most snow-sure, high-altitude resorts. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Europe’s most snow-sure resorts

When it comes to unforgettable ski holidays, snow is, of course, an important factor. While we can’t guarantee the snow for your holiday, choosing a high-altitude resort will certainly up the chance of good snow conditions, especially if planning an early or late season trip.

D

iscover our pick of Europe’s most snowsure destinations:

Val Thorens As the highest resort in Europe, Val Thorens sits at an impressive 2,300m, enjoying a great snow record and a long ski season that runs from late November to early May. With 99% of its pistes above 2,000m, Val Thorens and the Three Valleys even offer a ‘Snow Guarantee’, whereby your lift pass will be refunded on any day another resort in Europe has a higher number of open, linked pistes (conditions apply).

Alpe d’Huez Reaching a heady height of 3,330m, the extensive slopes and towering glacier of sunny Alpe d’Huez are some of the safest bets in France, with lifts generally opening in early December. Will you attempt the longest black run in the Alps, the daring 16km Sarenne run?

Tignes and Val d’Isère The mighty Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area is famous for having some of the most reliable snow in Europe, thanks to its high altitude and multidirectional snowfall from both the French and Italian Alps. This epic ski area boasts fantastic glacier skiing, an average snow depth of over two metres on its highest slopes and excellent snow making facilities.

Verbier The most popular resort in Switzerland’s largest ski area, the Four Valleys, lively Verbier offers some of the most snow sure – and picturesque – slopes around. The resort’s highest slopes on Mont Fort average a snow depth well over two metres, and extensive snowmaking facilities mean you can book an early or late season holiday with peace of mind.

Les Arcs Zermatt

The pistes of Les Arcs rise to an impressive

Sitting in the shadow of the magnificent

3,200m with Arc 2000 (the highest of the four

Matterhorn, the skiing in Zermatt is just as

resort bases) in particular offering outstanding

breathtaking as the scenery. It’s one of the best

doorstep skiing. Linking with La Plagne to form

places to go for early season ski holidays, with

the vast and diverse Paradiski area, a whopping

frequently reliable snow cover by early

70% of runs are above 2,000m. This combined

December. How does Christmas in a picture-

with a great snow record makes Les Arcs a great

perfect Swiss ski resort sound?

snow sure destination.

Main image: Zermatt lies beneath the majestic Matterhorn.

Left: Alpe d’Huez rises to 3330m at its highest point.

Right: Tignes, a high altitude haven.

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VAL D’ISÈRE TIGNES-VAL D’ISÈRE

With almost 100 years of skiing history, Val d’Isère is a true classic of the French Alps – one that everybody should visit at least once. Staying here will allow you to discover the mecca that is the stunning 300km Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area.

ALT IT U DE

1550-3456m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

300km NUMBE R OF RUNS

159 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

21 69 44 25

AIR PORT

Geneva 3:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

e snow sure pistes of Val d’Isère are conveniently linked with those of Tignes to create a huge, seamless ski area.

With a whopping vertical of over 1,900 metres, the TignesVal d’Isère ski area has more than enough room to accommodate all ages and abilities. is is especially true since the redevelopment of the Solaise area, creating some fantastic beginner slopes. Confident intermediates and advanced skiers will be in their element, with no end of demanding runs to conquer. Don’t miss your chance to ski the iconic La Face Olympic downhill run!

Sitting at 1850m, there’s a sophisticated atmosphere in Val d’Isère with plenty of upmarket restaurants and bars, including a couple of Michelin-starred gems.

As well as a wealth of beautifully groomed pistes, there are also huge possibilities for off-piste skiing, to be explored with a qualified instructor. We’ll gladly organise a lesson for you if you fancy giving it a try.

e après-ski scene is famous for being lively, with ample opportunity to dance in your ski boots at popular party venues like La Folie Douce if you so wish. ere’s plenty of variety though, so feel free to relax by the fire with a quiet cocktail or two if that’s more your cup of tea.

Val d’Isère is ideal for non-skiers and families, thanks to its large menu of activities. Up the ante with something exhilarating like paragliding or dog sledding, or simply enjoy a little well-deserved pampering back at your accommodation if you’re lucky enough to be staying at one of the resort’s luxury hotels.

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Hotel Les Barmes de L’Ours HHHHH

is iconic hotel is just a five minute walk from the resort centre and offers all the luxuries you’d expect from a top 5-star hotel.

• Excellent location for the slopes • Exceptional service and facilities • Choice of three on-site restaurants

Hotel Le Blizzard HHHHH

Located in the heart of Val d’Isère, this charming hotel is just 100m from the pistes and ski lifts and offers 5-star facilities.

• Outstanding service • Excellent wellness facilities • Renowned lounge bar

Airelles Val d’Isère – Mademoiselle HHHHH

Brand new this winter, the 5-star hotel Airelles Val d’Isère - Mademoiselle will offer luxury accommodation in the heart of the village.

• Direct access to the slopes and lifts • Décor inspired by medieval castles • Excellent facilities for children

Hotel Le Yule HHHHH

is Scandinavian-inspired hotel occupies a prime position at the foot of the slopes, right by the ski lifts in the heart of the village centre.

• Ski-in/ski-out location • Fantastic south-facing terrace • Inviting bar with open fire

Hotel Le Christiania HHHHH

One of Val d’Isère’s most popular and well known hotels, it occupies a wonderful location near to the slopes, ski lifts and ski school.

• First rate cuisine and service • Family friendly • Indoor pool and spa

Hotel L’Aigle des Neiges HHHH

Rest your head Val d’Isère is a world-class resort, so it’s only right that our selection of chalets and hotels are equally so. If you’re dreaming of unfettered 5-star luxury, this is one of the best resorts in the Alps for sublime accommodation.

We’ve hand-picked a wonderful choice of full-service hotels, beautiful chalets and charming self-catering apartments – some contemporary, others traditional, many boasting fabulous skiin/ski-out locations. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, in a group or with your family, rest assured there’s a place you’ll be excited to call home for a week or two.

Ideally located in the heart of the village, the stylish and contemporary Aigle des Neiges is only 100m from the ski lifts and shops.

• Indoor pool and Pure Altitude Spa • Choice of two restaurants • Large relaxing lounge with open fire

Residence Chalet Skadi HHHH

With a modern alpine feel, this recently-built residence provides luxurious apartments with stylish interiors and fantastic facilities.

• Modern self-catering accommodation • Indoor pool and Cinq Mondes spa • Public bus stop 50m from the residence

Residence Chalet Izia

Daria

Product Support

If you’re looking for lessons in Val d’Isère, I can’t recommend Progression Ski & Snowboard School highly enough. With small group sizes, English-speaking instructors and innovative teaching methods, you’ll be bombing down the slopes in no time! If you’d like to book any tuition in Val d’Isère (or any resort for that matter), just let us know and we’ll be able to organise everything for you.

HHHH

Brand-new for 2019, this residence provides easy access to the ski lifts and is close to the resort’s many bars, shops and restaurants.

• Ski-in/ski-out location • Indoor pool and spa • Close to ski school meeting point

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Val d’Isère, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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TIGNES TIGNES-VAL D’ISÈRE

One half of the mighty Tignes-Val d'Isère power duo, high-altitude Tignes has one of the best snow records around. Sitting beneath the mighty Grande Motte glacier, this modern resort is one of our favourite crowd-pleasing resorts.

ALT IT U DE

1550-3456m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

300km NUMBE R OF RUNS

159 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

21 69 44 25

AIR PORT

Geneva 3:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

With beautiful slopeside accommodation, an excellent snow record and 300km of slopes to please everyone from young novices to powder-hungry pros, Tignes offers the ultimate in convenience and accessibility.

Purpose-built for ease and comfort, modern Tignes is quite different in style to its sister resort of Val d'Isère. Especially popular with those looking for convenient access to the slopes, the resort is made up of five villages perched at varying altitudes.

e excellent network of 78 lifts makes it easy to explore the valleys, peaks and villages of this spectacular ski area and at its pinnacle, the mighty Grande Motte glacier offers yearround skiing with jaw-dropping panoramas.

Advanced skiers and riders can take their pick of demanding black runs and some of the best off-piste terrain in the French Alps (with a guide). Try the challenging La Sache black descent or discover the steep off-piste gullies around La Grande Balme with a guide.

e resort is split into two main hubs. Tignes Val Claret, at 2,100m, enjoys the best access to the western slopes towards Val d'Isère and Grande Motte. Tignes Le Lac is just down the road and also offers excellent access to the ski area as well as a range of ski school options. e remaining three villages are quieter and situated lower down the mountain.

Tignes is a lively resort, with an exciting choice of activities away from the slopes. Bun J Riding (a crazy combination of

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Adam

Ski Specialist

If you’re looking to squeeze in an early or late season trip, look no further than Tignes. Thanks to its high altitude and glacier skiing, Tignes is one of the first resorts to open and among the last to close. Why not escape the festive overload in the build-up to Christmas with a week of blissful skiing on quiet slopes? And you’ll benefit from the best early season prices. Sounds heavenly!

Hotel Les Suites - Maison Bouvier HHHHH

Chic hotel with beautifully appointed, luxury suites. It is close to the shops and restaurants in Val Claret and 150m from the slopes.

• Beautifully designed public areas • Indoor pool and spa • Spacious rooms and suites

Hotel Le Taos HHHH

Le Taos offers a range of suites with Native American-inspired décor. With stunning views, it sits in a prime position in Tignes Le Lac. • Ski-in/ski-out • Easy access to shops and restaurants • Indoor pool and spa

Apartments at Hotel Le Taos HHHH

With an enviable ski-in/ski-out location, guests enjoy the convenience of self-catering with access to the hotel’s excellent facilities.

• Spacious apartments • Access to all the hotel facilities • Ski-in/ski-out

Residence Le Nevada HHHH

ski jumping, bungee jumping and zip wire), dog-sledding, ice skating – the list is a long one. e après-ski scene is friendly with a great selection of restaurants, bars, live music venues and clubs spread throughout the two main resort hubs.

Rest your head Our diverse hand-picked selection includes the resort’s newest and most stylish 4 and 5-star hotels, luxury self-catering apartments and comfortable chalet-style residences offering unbeatable value for money.

Many of our picks have exceptional facilities and all are either ski-in/ski-out accommodation or situated just a short walk from the slopes.

ese well-equipped, self-catering apartments boast an exceptional location in the centre of Val Claret, only 150m from the slopes.

• Spacious apartments • Indoor pool and spa • Public lounge with open fire

Residence La Ferme du Val Claret HHHH

Popular self-catering residence in Tignes Val Claret, across the road from the Tichot ski lift and 200m from the shops, restaurants and bars.

• Savoyard style apartments • Residence lounge • Spa facilities at Residence Le Nevada

Residence Le Telemark HHHH

Occupying a slopeside location in Tignes Le Lac on the Les Bleuets piste near the Chaudanne ski lift, just a five minute walk from the centre.

• Indoor pool and spa • Traditional Savoyard style • Spacious apartments

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Tignes, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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LES ARCS PARADISKI

One of our favourite family-friendly resorts, scenic Les Arcs offers incredible access to the world-class Paradiski area. Alongside this high-altitude winter playground sit a choice of modern resort villages to bring you the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

ALT IT U DE

1200-3200m Les Arcs & Peisey Vallandry / Paradiski SKI ABLE TERR AIN

200km / 425km NUMBE R OF RUNS

128 / 260 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

3 / 12 63 / 135 45 / 77 17 / 36

AIR PORT

Geneva 3:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

With 200km of immaculate pistes to explore within the local Les Arcs ski area, you’ll find a lovely variety of wide runs both above and below the treeline right on your doorstep, including a great range of beginner slopes. Don’t miss the famous 7km descent from the summit of the Aiguille Rouge at 3,226m right down to the tiny hamlet of Villaroger at 1,200m – it’s one of the longest in Europe.

Les Arcs comprises four self-contained, contemporary bases, each named according to their altitude at 1600, 1800, 1950 and 2000 respectively, as well as the traditional villages of Peisey Vallandry. All are linked by a network of pistes and lifts, giving you ample opportunity to soak up the individual character of each.

If cruising as many runs as possible during your ski holiday is your thing, you’ll adore the slick lift system – including the double decker Vanoise Express cable car linking Les Arcs with neighbouring La Plagne – that makes the wider 425km Paradiski area such a delight to explore.

Each purpose-built resort is largely traffic-free, with a wealth of facilities and activities to enjoy. Arc 1800 is where you’ll find the state-of-the-art Mille8 development with everything from an impressive aquatic leisure centre to toboggan runs and slalom courses. Arc 1950 is more tranquil, with fantastic family-friendly accommodation and facilities, while Arc 2000 is a perfect base for those seeking unrivalled access to the slopes every morning.

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Hotel Taj-I Mah HHHHH

Sitting in an exceptional ski-in/ski-out location in Arc 2000, the Hotel Taj-I Mah boasts stunning views over the resort and surrounding slopes. Its superb facilities include a lounge bar with fireplace, south-facing panoramic terrace and two restaurants. ere is also a 400m2 spa area with swimming pool, ideal for a spot of relaxation.

• The only 5-star hotel in Les Arcs • Ski-in/ski-out • Ski shop on site • Excellent wellness facilities • Spectacular views

Residence La Source de Arcs HHHH PLUS

Le Village - Arc 1950

Rest your head We feature a fantastic selection of accommodation in Arc 1950 and Arc 2000, all delivering easy access to the slopes, familyfriendly facilities and stylish surroundings.

Choose from full-service 5-star luxury, ski-in/ski out convenience or cosy value for money across a beautiful range of hotels and apartments. Most properties boast their own wellness facilities, where you can happily revive tired legs after a fabulous day of skiing or snowboarding, and spectacular panoramic views of the valley below and the majestic snow-capped peaks above.

Gareth

Sales Manager

Spirit 1950 ski school offers a range of lesson and kids club options which will help ensure you have the best family ski holiday. With the children happily occupied, you’ll be free to make the most of the Paradiski area, which is certainly extensive. If you’d like to know more about the different childcare options available in Les Arcs, just let us know and we’ll be happy to advise.

Residence La Source des Arcs occupies a skiin/ski-out position in Arc 2000, close to the main square and beside the top of the Cabriolet gondola linking the resort with Arc 1950. e apartments have a fresh, modern feel and many offer wonderful slope or mountain views, which can be enjoyed from the private balconies.

• Modern well-equipped apartments • Ski-in/ski-out • Indoor pool and spa • Close to shops and restaurants • Good range of apartment sizes

Le Village – Arc 1950 HHHH

A firm favourite with Ski Independence clients, the eight residences making up Le Village provide a good standard of self-catered, skiin/ski-out apartments with hotel-style facilities. ere is a ski school, shops, bars and restaurants on your doorstep in Arc 1950 and facilities across the complex include several swimming pools and Jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms.

• Ski-in/ski-out • Easy access to local amenities • Traffic-free village • Perfect for families • Range of leisure facilities

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Les Arcs, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

GRAND MASSIF A FRENCH SKIING PARADISE

Flaine

At just over an hour’s drive from Geneva, this spectacular ski destination is home to 265km of varied pistes and views of the Mont Blanc that take your breath away. Its accessibility and fantastic skiing make this ski area a real favourite with Ski Independence clients.

ALT IT U DE

800-2500m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

265km NUMBE R OF RUNS

140 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

23 60 46 11

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resorts

As the fourth largest linked ski area in France, the Grand Massif offers an enormous choice of skiing and snowboarding for all levels. And while the highest point is a relatively modest 2,500m, with 80 percent of slopes facing north, the snow record is fantastic. From dedicated nursery slopes to the legendary runs of the Flaine snow bowl, this amazing ski area will appeal to everyone.

e Grand Massif is made up of several harmonious villages, including the resorts of Flaine, Samoëns and Les Carroz.

AIR PORT

Geneva 1:20 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Descend the 14km blue Cascades run from the top of the Grandes Platières lift, or explore some of the area’s wonderful off-piste terrain (with a guide, of course). For advanced skiers, the Combe de Gers is an absolute must with a thigh-burning descent and first-class views.

Picturesque Samoëns is an ancient village with all the historic charm you’d expect that to entail. e beautiful, pedestrianised centre is lined with friendly bars, regional food shops and traditional boutiques. e biggest and best-known of the Grand Massif, purposebuilt Flaine sits at 1,600m and was designed in the 1960s to be a modernist masterpiece of the Bauhaus architectural movement. e more recent Montsoleil development has more of a traditional alpine feel.

Sitting at the bottom of tree-lined slopes, pretty Les Carroz has bags of rustic charm. At 1,200m, this small village is full of traditional timber Savoyard chalets, housing inviting accommodation, restaurants, shops and bars.

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Flaine

Les Carroz

Samoëns

Les Carroz

Rest your head

Which of the Grand Massif ski resorts would be your ideal place to unwind after a great day on the slopes?

We’ve hand-picked a lovely collection self-catering apartments and hotels in the magnificent Grand Massif area, perfect for families, couples and groups.

Best for traditional village life

Choose between spacious modern apartments with every home comfort, pretty Savoyard-style residences, or ski-in/ski-out hotels offering fantastic access to the pistes – all set amongst spectacular alpine scenery. Facilities may include swimming pools, wellness areas, fresh bakery deliveries, and fabulous restaurants.

Catherine

Product Manager

The Grand Massif has something to offer everyone. The beautifully pretty village of Samoëns is the perfect place to stay if you are looking for an authentic French getaway, while purpose-built Flaine offers the ultimate in ski-in / ski-out convenience. The ski area is extensive with plenty of tree-lined runs and cosy mountain restaurants. In short, the Grand Massif is not to be missed!

Postcard-worthy Samoëns is a world away from its purposebuilt neighbour, with pretty cobbled streets and a real sense of a thriving year-round community. Recent investment has helped to create some wonderfully luxurious hotels and apartments to complement its charming Savoyard style. (See page 80)

Best for contemporary ski-in/ski-out Flaine offers great choice when it comes to accommodation, with an excellent range of modern, stylish options, many in ski-in/ski-out locations. As the hub of the Grand Massif area, there’s lots to do for visitors of all ages in this fun purpose-built resort. (See page 81)

Best for a quiet getaway Looking for a quiet ski retreat? Les Carroz combines beautiful authentic charm with the best of modern facilities, all set within snow-laden forests. It’s a popular choice for couples and families wanting to get away from it all. (Please visit our website at www.ski-i.com/france/les-carroz)

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

SAMOËNS GRAND MASSIF

Hotel Alexane HHHH

Beautiful hotel located in the heart of Samoëns, offering spacious rooms and suites with a private shuttle service to the Grand Massif gondola.

• Ideal for short breaks • Indoor pool and spa area • Stunning lounge bar and restaurant

Residence Alexane HHHH

Attached to the Hotel Alexane, these beautiful self-catering apartments benefit from the added convenience of excellent hotel facilities.

• Modern, well-equipped apartments • Use of Hotel Alexane’s facilities • Private shuttle service to the slopes

With an authentic village feel, picture-perfect Samoëns offers an irresistible taste of Savoyard life.

Medieval Samoëns has a special ambiance. Stroll through historic streets to the traffic-free centre, where inviting bars and restaurants line a beautiful square. Most of the village’s buildings are true to its Savoyard style, even the resort’s luxurious modern additions. While you can’t ski right down to Samoëns at the end of the day, the gondola takes just 10 minutes or you can ski to neighbouring Morillon and hop on a ski bus from there. is small village packs a punch when it comes to celebrating Savoyard culture. From mouth-watering gourmet delis selling the finest local produce to the colourful weekly market, it’s best to arrive hungry.

Residence La Reine des Prés HHHH

ese lovely, spacious self-catering apartments, spread over 7 chalets, offer great facilities only 400m from the Grand Massif gondola • Indoor pool and spa area • Traditional Savoyard style • 5 minutes’ walk from the village centre

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Samoëns, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

Catherine

Product Manager

I had an amazing holiday in pretty Samoëns last winter. The village feels authentically French and with an enormous ski area on its doorstep it really is a fantastic destination. My personal recommendation is to rent a locker at the top of the Grand Massif Express gondola. You can leave your ski gear there at the end of the day and feel like you’re walking on air as you make your way back to your accommodation… or nearest bar!

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FLAINE GRAND MASSIF

Residence Les Terrasses d’Hélios HHHH

A firm favourite, this residence offers modern apartments and excellent facilities in a slopeside location, 500m from the resort centre.

• Ski-in/ski-out • Contemporary, spacious apartments • Indoor pool and spa

With a fantastic snow record, easy transfer from Geneva and jaw-dropping views across to Mont Blanc, Flaine is a family-friendly winner.

Flaine is one of France’s most striking purpose-built resorts, with its stark Bauhaus design and distinct apartment buildings now classified as French Historical Monuments. Particularly popular with families, Flaine has a safe, relaxed feel to its predominantly traffic-free streets and the majority of accommodation here is ski-in/ski-out.

Flaine’s après-ski is on the quieter side, centring mainly around its many scenic sun terraces and family-friendly restaurants and bars.

Residence Les Terrasses d’Eos HHHH

Nestled in the forest with stunning views of the valley, this popular residence offers spacious apartments with easy access to the slopes and lifts.

• Ski-in/ski-out • Wellness facilities and outdoor pool • Ski school meeting point at residence

Residence Le Centaure HHHH

Located in the heart of Flaine Forum, this residence occupies a slopeside position (on a red run) next to the main Grandes Platières cable car.

• Located in resort centre • Stylish and contemporary apartments • Indoor pool and spa

Hotel Terminal Neige Totem HHH

Magda

Ski Specialist

As Flaine is purpose-built, there’s a great choice of ski-in/ski-out accommodation, meaning you can maximise your time on the slopes.

With such an extensive ski area on your doorstop, you’ll definitely want to explore! When your ski legs have given up on you for the day, stop for a drink at the Hotel Terminal Neige Totem. It’s modern and quirky and one of their cocktails will soon have you feeling restored.

Ideally located in a ski-in/ski-out location in Flaine Forum, this modern hotel incorporates the resort’s quirky, urban style into its décor.

• Modern bar and restaurant • On-site ski shop • Wellness area and spa (fee payable)

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Flaine, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

Discover the world of Europe’s

luxury ski hotels These gems can transform your ski experience, taking it from the ordinary to the truly extraordinary. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Europe’s ultimate luxury ski hotels

Luxuriate in exquisite alpine elegance, enjoy superb service, and marvel at the incredible amenities these world-class hotels offer.

The Chedi Andermatt Andermatt

Hotel Rosa Alpina San Cassiano

The opulent Chedi Andermatt surpasses all

If Michelin-starred cuisine, impeccable service

expectations in an innovative marriage of East

and timeless alpine charm appeal, you’ll be

meets West. Enjoy service fit for a king as your

bowled over by the quiet refinement of the Rosa

personal ski butler warms your boots, the in-

Alpina. Surrounded by the magnificent Italian

house sommelier finds the perfect match for

Dolomites, this elegant hotel creates an

your cheese course and Michelin-starred chefs

unforgettable experience from its serene

serve you decadent Japanese cuisine.

subterranean spa right up to its palatial penthouse suites.

Gstaad Palace Gstaad One of the finest hotels in Switzerland, the grand Gstaad Palace offers stylish rooms and suites

Hotel Barrière Les Neiges Courchevel Alpine warmth meets glamorous luxury at the ski-in/ski-out Barrière Les Neiges on the slopes of Courchevel 1850. With spectacular views of the Three Valleys, this exclusive hotel envelops you in blissful well-being, whether you’re making use of the spa, the family cinema room or simply relaxing in your sumptuous suite.

Badrutt’s Palace Hotel St Moritz Join the beautiful people as you check in to the enchanting Badrutt’s Palace with its historic ambiance, soaring Grand Hall and distinctly with breath-taking panoramic views of the

regal rooms. All of that grandeur doesn’t mean

Swiss Alps. Guests are treated to outstanding

you won’t enjoy lovely thoughtful touches

gastronomy in a choice of restaurants and

though, like a hot water bottle magically

unrivalled pampering in its tranquil spa complex.

appearing to warm your bed.

Hotel Le Kaila Méribel In the heart of the Three Valleys, Hotel Le Kaila offers mountain luxury at its best. A private elevator speeds you from the hotel’s ski shop to the slopes, and when you’ve finished skiing, you can relax in the superb Nuxe spa or feast on Michelin-starred dishes in the Ekrin Restaurant.

Hotel W Verbier Verbier Named the World’s Best Ski Hotel in both 2017 and 2018, the stylish W Verbier is beyond compare. As if doorstep skiing, fabulous alpine

The next step

suites and jaw-dropping views from your

If you’d like to book a holiday to any of these

private balcony weren’t enough, your Mountain

fabulous hotels, please call our Ski Specialists on

Concierge is on hand to offer their famed

0131 243 8097. You’ll also find further luxury,

‘whatever/whenever’ service.

five-star favourites at www.ski-i.com.

Main image: Relax in The Chedi Andermatt.

Left: The regal Gstaad Palace.

Right: A pool with a view: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, St Moritz.

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MEGÈVE EVASION MONT BLANC

e historic ski town of Megève has been attracting the old-school European elite since the roaring ‘20s. is exclusive and upmarket ski destination is renowned for being equally fabulous for both skiers and non-skiers.

ALT IT U DE

1050-2355m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

400km NUMBE R OF RUNS

235 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

45 65 91 34

AIR PORT

Geneva 1:10 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Part of the extensive Evasion Mont Blanc ski area, Megève delivers 400km of gorgeous pistes, from gentle tree-lined slopes to wide, open snow bowls. Spread across three main areas – Rochebrune, Mont d'Arbois and Jaillet – the skiing may not be completely interlinked but it is certainly varied.

Megève’s beautiful medieval centre has expanded over the years to include a wide range of stylish boutiques, smart restaurants (some Michelin-starred) and ultra-luxurious hotels. e pedestrianised cobbled streets of the centre are a magical place for an evening stroll, as horse-drawn sleighs pass you by and families enjoy the open air ice rink.

It’s a fantastic place to learn, with almost half of the runs classified green or blue and beginner slopes at all altitudes across the mountains. Advanced skiers can head to the Mont Joly area of Mont d'Arbois and the Côte 2000 area on the Rochebrune mountain for challenging reds and blacks.

If you love the thrill of going off-piste, Megève boasts tremendous powder terrain when conditions are good. If you fancy giving freestyle a shot, why not book a session with the ESF so you can hone your skills on one of their two giant air cushions at the Rochebrune snow park?

e recently expanded Le Palais sports centre is a hit with families, with swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness rooms and a host of relaxing wellness facilities to enjoy. e menu of resort activities is huge, covering everything from dogsleigh initiation to paintballing.

As you might expect from such a glamorous place, Megève is packed with high-end bars and clubs and the recent addition of the Folie Douce at the top of the Mont Joux chairlift brings a touch of fun to the slopes.

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Hotel Les Fermes de Marie HHHHH

is unique property blends history and traditional décor with contemporary style to offer the ultimate in luxury accommodation.

Constructed using traditional alpine farmhouses which were rescued from ruin, this property is an authentic, stunningly beautiful retreat catering to skiers and non-skiers alike and is located just 700m from the village centre.

• Excellent service and facilities • Choice of three restaurants on site • Complimentary shuttle service

Hotel Le M de Megève HHHHH

Ideally located less than 100m from the Chamois gondola and just a few steps from the pedestrian centre, this hotel is the perfect base to explore the charming village and ski area. e welcoming, intimate feel of the hotel is reflected in the luxurious design of the rooms, as well as in the restaurants and bar.

• Excellent location • Choice of dining options • Fantastic facilities and service

Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois HHHHH

Rest your head We feature a selection of Megève’s most luxurious 4 and 5-star hotels situated in superb locations throughout the resort.

Choose to base yourself in the heart of the resort, close to those glittering restaurants and bars, or next to the slopes for unrivalled access to the resort’s fantastic skiing.

Whether you’re dreaming of classic luxury brought to you by world-class names like the Four Seasons or smaller Savoyard hotels showcasing a rustic mountain décor alongside first-class service, our hand-picked collection of Megève hotels won’t disappoint.

Aodhan

Senior Ski Specialist

Opening in December 2019, the latest addition to the Four Seasons portfolio will be the Chalets du Mont d’Arbois in Megève. Consisting of three traditional chalet buildings at the foot of the Mont d’Arbois slopes, this luxurious winter retreat will be the ultimate alpine getaway with all the services you’d expect from a 5-star property.

• In-house Michelin-starred restaurant • Indoor-outdoor pool and spa • Easy access to ski area

Hotel Mont Blanc HHHH

Regarded as one of the most iconic hotels in Megève, the stunning Hotel Mont Blanc is situated right at the heart of the village, just a short stroll from the Chamois gondola. e hotel’s Enfants Terribles restaurant is renowned for its excellent cuisine and the hotel also offers a tea room/bar, lounge and reading room.

• Iconic property • Fantastic location • Pure Altitude spa and small pool

The cobbled medieval streets of Megève are breathtakingly beautiful and with plenty of designer boutiques, bars and restaurants in the village, it’s a great choice for non-skiers looking to soak up the mountain atmosphere. If you do decide to hit the slopes though, you won’t be disappointed. An extensive ski area with plenty of wide cruisy slopes awaits. Why not make Megève your next destination for a winter break?

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Megève, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

ALPE D’HUEZ GRAND DOMAINE

e sunny modern resort of Alpe d’Huez is home to a whopping 250km of heavenly pistes, a huge choice of winter activities and phenomenal panoramas across the Ecrins National Park. A lively destination that’s full of energy, you’ll find the après-ski as varied as the skiing.

ALT IT U DE

1860-3330m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

250km NUMBE R OF RUNS

111 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

34 31 28 18

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

e expansive Alpe d'Huez Grand Domaine ski area links with the villages of Auris, Oz en Oisans, Vaujany and Villard Reculas to create an almost infinite ski area with everything from easy greens to highly demanding off-piste skiing. ere’s a real mix of terrain across the ski area, including a couple of snow parks, making it a popular choice among groups of mixed abilities.

Aptly dubbed ‘l’Île au Soleil’, the large purpose-built resort of Alpe d’Huez is perched high on a sunny plateau – the ideal place to relax on a scenic terrace and drink in those staggering alpine views. e resort offers excellent slopeside convenience, easy transfers from Grenoble, and there’s a real buzz in town.

AIR PORT

Grenoble 1:35 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Heading up to the heady summit of Pic Blanc at 3,330m for jaw-dropping views across to Mont Blanc is a must. You can then choose from several iconic descents, including a daring black run featuring a treacherous mogul field accessed by skiing through a tunnel, and La Sarenne, the longest black run in the Alps at a whopping 16km.

Alpe d’Huez is one of the liveliest party resorts in the French Alps, with a huge choice of bars, restaurants, live music venues and clubs, including the world-famous La Folie Douce. Make use of a great range of resort facilities which include an ice rink and cinemas and don’t miss a visit to the magical ice sculptures at the Alpe d'Huez Ice Caves.

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Gareth

Sales Manager

For a mountain lunch, the Chalet du Lac Besson Restaurant comes highly recommended from both Ski Independence staff and clients. As you descend the red Chamois run, take a right on to the blue Boulevard des Lacs and you’ll arrive at this rustic mountain hut. The views from its sun terrace are superb and the traditional Savoyard specialities delicious. We highly recommend booking a table as it can get busy and we’ll be happy to do this for you.

Hotel Daria-I Nor HHHHH

is recently-built property places an emphasis on using natural materials and has been designed with wellbeing in mind. Featuring an 800m2 spa with two swimming pools, the hotel also boasts two restaurants and a lounge bar.

Access to the ski area is via the Alpe-Express gondola at the entrance to the on-site ski shop.

• Easy access to the ski area • Ski school meeting point nearby • Range of rooms and suites • Wellness facilities and pools • In-house ski shop

Residence Daria-I Nor HHHH

is self-catering residence opened in December 2018 and is located in the Eclose district of Alpe d’Huez, providing access to the slopes via the Alpe-Express gondola just 100 metres from the residence. e residence benefits from beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is situated beside its sister property, the Hotel Daria-I Nor. • Indoor pool and spa • Spacious apartments • Convenient access to ski area • Great views • Modern property

Rest your head Our select choice of Alpe d’Huez hotels and apartments are all about combining 4 and 5-star facilities with unrivalled access to the slopes and delights of this dynamic resort. Families, couples, groups or solo skiers – we’ve got everyone covered.

Choose a location with direct access to the lifts or plump for a residence in the centre of the resort. Alpe d’Huez offers everything from brand new contemporary hotels with gorgeous spa facilities to well-equipped chalet-style self-catering apartments.

Residence Le Cristal de L’Alpe HHHH

Residence Le Cristal de L’Alpe offers centrally located apartments with excellent facilities including a swimming pool, spa area and guest lounge with open fire. ere are many shops and restaurants nearby and it’s a short walk to the slopes, which can also be accessed via the nearest ski lift, approximately 50m away.

• Spacious apartments • Indoor pool and spa • Central location • Savoyard-style • Fitness room

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Alpe d’Huez, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

CHAMONIX CHAMONIX VALLEY

e world-famous mecca of mountain adventures, Chamonix sits at the foot of the towering peak and glaciers of the mighty Mont Blanc. is spirited resort has legendary status, thanks to its incredible range of skiing, snowboarding and mountaineering.

ALT IT U DE

1040-3842m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

118km NUMBE R OF RUNS

83 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

16 32 23 12

AIR PORT

Geneva 1:10 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Depending on your choice of lift pass, Chamonix's extensive ski area covers up to five different areas in the valley – Brévent, Flégère, Grands Montets, Balme Vallorcine and Les Houches - each with their own unique appeal. You can also ski in Courmayeur and Megève but you will need to travel by public transport or hire a car to do so.

You can feel alpine heritage in the air in Chamonix, as the resort continues to attract avid skiers, climbers and adventurers, just as it did those early 19th-century mountain pioneers. Prepare to be buoyed up by all that collective energy as you explore the town.

Chamonix is renowned for its steep terrain and deep snow.

But that’s not to say beginners can’t enjoy their time on the slopes here. e uncrowded slopes of the Balme Vallorcine ski area are great for cruising and there are a number of dedicated beginner areas dotted throughout the valley. e most iconic ski area for advanced skiers and riders has to be the Grands Montets. Here you can revel in a vast freeride heaven and tackle the 2,000m descent to the valley when you’re done. Skiing the famous Vallée Blanche from the top of the Aiguille du Midi cable car with a qualified guide is also a must for anybody looking to test their skills.

As a year-round town, Chamonix has a metropolitan selection of restaurants, bars and clubs to please an international crowd – as well as an inordinate number of outdoor gear shops! e resort’s lively après-ski scene begins on the slopeside sun terraces and carries on into the early hours. Go low-key and budget-friendly or treat yourself to an evening of stylish cocktails in Les Caves and two Michelin-starred dining at Albert Premier.

Chamonix has a massive choice of non-skiing activities to get stuck into. Try dog sledding, ride the luge on rails or simply soak up the most staggering views in the Alps.

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Hotel Mont Blanc HHHHH is stylish hotel in central Chamonix benefits from excellent facilities including an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi offering views of Mont Blanc.

• Fantastic central location • Excellent spa facilities • Stylish piano bar

Hotel Héliopic HHHH

Set beside the pedestrian Aiguille du Midi cable car, this chic hotel’s excellent facilities include a stylish lobby with a restaurant and bar.

• 500m2 spa • Public bus stop close by • In-house ski hire shop

Hotel Le Refuge des Aiglons HHHH

Rest your head We’ve complemented Chamonix’s world-class pistes with a wide range of equally stellar accommodation for you. We’ve handpicked the best hotels and apartments in a variety of locations so you can choose between chic boutique establishments, cool contemporary hotels and high-end self-catering apartments.

Amenities include indulgent spas, scenic outdoor Jacuzzis and fine dining, and many offer the opportunity to book a short (but sweet) break.

is contemporary hotel, close to the pedestrian Aiguille du Midi cable car, is five minutes from the centre and has superb views of Mont Blanc.

• Ideal for short breaks • Impressive bar and restaurant • Public bus stop nearby

Boutique Hotel Le Morgane HHHH

This stylish hotel, close to the pedestrian Aiguille du Midi cable car, has great facilities including a gourmet Scandi restaurant, bar and spa area.

• Ideal for short breaks • Wellness facilities on site • Public bus stop nearby

Residence Le Cristal de Jade

Daria

Product Support

Skiing the iconic Vallée Blanche was the absolute highlight of my trip to Chamonix. The views of the Mont Blanc from the top of the Aiguille du Midi cable car are simply stunning. I felt like a genuine explorer making my way down and admiring the amazing colours of the glacier.

Surprisingly, you needn’t be an expert skier and most intermediates will rise to the challenge. You must be accompanied by a guide and I’ll be more than happy to book a private or group session for you.

HHHH

is luxury residence’s excellent facilities include an indoor pool and spa and is close to a ski bus stop and the pedestrian Aiguille du Midi cable car.

• Beautiful, spacious apartments • Friendly service • Ideal for short breaks

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Chamonix, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

LA CLUSAZ ARAVIS

is picturesque Savoie village oozes charm and is a largely undiscovered gem amongst British skiers. If five wonderful ski mountains, a compact centre and great cuisine sounds appealing, it’s time to get to know this family-friendly French beauty.

ALT IT U DE

1100-2600m La Clusaz - Manigod / Aravis SKI ABLE TERR AIN

125km / 210km NUMBE R OF RUNS

85 / 134 T YPE OF RU NS

Green Blue Red Black

16 / 33 31 / 43 30 / 46 8 / 12

AIR PORT

Geneva 1:10 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Set in the Aravis mountains, not far from Lake Annecy, La Clusaz’s ski area connects with the Manigod ski area to create 125km of pistes across five beautiful linked mountains. Skiers and riders of all abilities can revel in a fantastic variety of runs, with the neighbouring Grand Bornand ski area accessible by ski bus.

A far cry from the hustle and bustle of the more popular resorts in the Alps, La Clusaz offers an authentic slice of French life. Pretty timber chalets line the streets of this traditional town and the historic central square is packed with lovely restaurants and bars keen to offer a warm welcome. And as a year-round town, the variety of shops – which includes a dangerously mouth-watering chocolate shop – is a complete joy.

La Clusaz is most suited to beginners and intermediates, although each of the five mountains offers different terrain. e gentle meadow slopes of the Beauregard and Manigod are popular with novices, while intermediates will find outstanding tree-lined blues and cruisy reds on the massifs of Belvédère and Aiguille. e Balme massif is the place to go if you want a challenge, with some exhilarating expert runs and stunning freeride terrain amongst the cliffs and snow bowls (to be explored with a qualified guide). It’s little wonder La Clusaz has a reputation for turning out so many French ski champions!

Families can dive into a whole host of non-skiing activities, including ice skating, pony sledging and tobogganing. ere is also a cinema and an aqua centre with indoor and outdoor swimming pools and wellness areas. e après-ski has a festive vibe with a lively selection of bars and events organised throughout the winter. And after a long day in the mountains, you’ll find there’s nowhere better to tuck into the famous French cheese and wine.

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Hotel Au Cœur du Village HHHHH

With spacious suites, this luxurious hotel offers traditional ambiance with a contemporary twist in a prime location at the heart of La Clusaz.

• Ideal for short breaks • Easy access to the slopes • Cristal Spa wellness area with pool

Chalet Au Cœur du Village HHHHH

Sleeping up to 8 people, this stunning property combines the luxury of a private chalet with the 5-star facilities of its sister hotel.

• Access to hotel spa via private walkway • Three en suite bedrooms • Perfect for larger families and groups

Hotel Beauregard

Rest your head From full-service luxury hotels to private chalets and charming self-catering residences, our selection of 4 and 5-star accommodation in La Clusaz is as inviting as the ambiance in this unique French town.

Whilst all of our accommodation choices have a rustic traditional façade, inside you’ll often find contemporary luxury and truly chic surroundings. e multiple lift access points to the slopes mean that the ski area is never far away, even if you choose to base yourself in the centre of the town (close to that tempting chocolate shop…)

HHHH

Just 100m from the Bossonnet ski lift, the hotel is a ten minute walk from the centre and has a wellness area that is perfect for relaxation.

• Large indoor pool and spa area • Family-friendly room configurations • Ski school meeting point close by

Residence Les Cimes HHHH

Built in a traditional style with a modern twist, these self-catering apartments are 100m from the Bossonnet ski lift.

• Modern well-equipped apartments • Easy access to slopes and ski school • On-site pool and sauna

Residence Les Grandes Alpes

Iona

Ski Specialist

If you’re looking to ramp up your time on the slopes next winter, why not consider a trip to La Clusaz? At just over an hour’s drive from Geneva Airport, it’s easy to come here for a short break (or two!) With a picture postcard village, extensive ski area and a great range of accommodation, you won’t be disappointed. My personal recommendation is to stay at the Hotel Au Coeur du Village, right in the heart of the village.

HHHH

ese self-catering apartments lie five minutes’ walk from the village centre and slopes and are decorated in a traditional alpine style.

• Indoor pool and wellness facilities • Spacious apartments • Stunning views

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in La Clusaz, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

Finding your next

family favourite When it comes to ďŹ nding the perfect ski resort for your family holiday, there’s a whole host of elements to take into consideration. >>

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

>> Europe’s best family-friendly resorts

When it comes to family ski holidays, we look for convenient, welcoming resorts with a great choice of beginner slopes, excellent ski schools and plenty of fun resort activities.

I

t’s not always easy finding a resort that ticks

experienced group leaders put on a varied

all the boxes, but the following European

programme of winter fun which can also be

resorts have firmly established themselves as

combined with traditional ski lessons.

family favourites with the Ski Independence team:

Villars With traditional Swiss charm and mountain

Avoriaz

views, Villars is a real beauty of a resort offering

If you're looking for ski-in/ski-out convenience,

a warm welcome to families. The uncrowded ski

relaxed self-catering accommodation with a

area is the perfect place for children (and adults)

home-from-home feel and 600km of pistes to

to learn and everyone can enjoy a wide range of

suit all levels, car-free Avoriaz is the perfect

activities away from the slopes, including bowling, snowshoeing and sledging.

In terms of ski schools, you are spoilt for choice. The local Swiss Ski School is a favourite with Ski Independence, offering flexible group lessons and kindergarten options that can be tailored to a short break. If you prefer a Britishrun ski school, consider New Generation.

Keeping the group sizes small, the hot chocolate breaks regular and the lessons playful and engaging, they run a wonderful programme of

choice. Located in the heart of the vast Portes du

ski lessons for kids from 4 to 13 years old.

Soleil, this attractive resort has a magical atmosphere for children, with horse-drawn sleighs providing the only means of transport.

Avoriaz is home to an excellent choice of well-

Our Top European Family Ski Schools

respected British-run ski and snowboard schools

Finding a resort with a first-class

offering a variety of lessons to suit your needs.

English-speaking ski school can make

If you fancy an afternoon away from the slopes,

all the difference to everyone’s holiday

why not check out the Aquariaz centre with

enjoyment, especially when your little

tropical rainforest inspired pools and activities?

ones are just starting out. Our expert

Les Arcs Nowhere does purpose-built ski villages better

Ski Specialists recommend:

than France, and the four that make up Les Arcs

Progression Ski and Snowboard School

are among the best. With traffic-free streets,

Experienced instuction in Val d’Isère.

easy-to-access nursery slopes for beginners and the vast, snow sure Paradiski area to explore, Les

New Generation Ski School

Arcs offers the ultimate in family convenience.

Operating in resorts across Europe from Val Thorens to Verbier.

The superb Cariboo Kids Club at Arc 1950 offers one-of-a-kind care for children aged 9 months to 12 years old. Designed to provide a joyful introduction to the mountains,

Main image: Les Arcs, a purpose-built paradise.

Above: Finding the right tuition is important.

Supreme Ski School Expert tuition in Courchevel and the Portes du Soleil ski resorts.

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Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

VERBIER THE FOUR VALLEYS

With its stylish clientele, upmarket après and prime celeb-spotting opportunities, glamorous Verbier is the place to see and be seen. But most importantly, its sunny snow sure slopes are a spectacular 410km winter heaven just waiting to be explored.

ALT IT U DE

1500-3330m Verbier / e Four Valleys SKI ABLE TERR AIN

110km / 410km NUMBE R OF RUNS

31 / 73 T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

10 / 24 20 / 39 5 / 10

AIR PORT

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Sitting in the heart of Switzerland’s largest linked ski area, the Four Valleys, Verbier boasts an incredible selection of pistes to suit all abilities. Beginners are well catered for with a superb choice of ski school options and skiers of all abilities will enjoy the gentle slopes of the Chaux snow bowl. From here you can also enjoy stunning views across the Swiss Alps – on a clear day you can see as far as the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.

Verbier has to be one of the most vibrant resorts we know, making it a great option for mixed groups of skiers and nonskiers. From the unbelievable scenery and charming timber chalets to the feast of activities on your doorstep, it’s hard to imagine boredom striking here.

Geneva 2:00 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

e huge network of red runs directly above the town are a wonderful place for intermediates to play, while expert skiers and riders can head up to the 3,330m Mon Fort summit.

Here you’ll find some glorious – but serious – off-piste terrain to explore with a guide. Verbier is also home to a wide choice of ungroomed, unpatrolled runs (known as itinerary runs).

You’ll find a cosmopolitan choice of chic restaurants and bars to visit, all with that unmistakable Verbier ambiance.

If you’re in the mood for a party, Verbier hosts some of the best in the Alps with legendary venues like the Le Mouton Noir and Ice Cube (Verbier’s answer to La Folie Douce) all set to have you dancing in your ski boots. If you decide to party on until the small hours, the Farm Club nightclub is a Verbier institution.

Non-skiing activities include browsing the luxury boutiques, snowshoeing, ice skating, tobogganing and paragliding.

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Hotel W Verbier HHHHH

e stunning, slopeside W Verbier is ideally located opposite the Médran ski lift and the stylish shops of Place Blanche. Offering superb luxury accommodation with an urban alpine feel, the W boasts exceptional facilities and dining options including a tapas and sushi bar.

• Ideal for short breaks • Easy access to the slopes • Excellent wellness facilities

Hotel La Cordée des Alpes HHHH

Located in a quiet spot, this luxurious property is a short walk from the resort centre. e hotel provides a free shuttle bus to the slopes and the hotel’s excellent facilities include a gastronomic restaurant and a spa with a swimming pool overlooking the mountains.

• Wellness facilities and indoor pool • Welcoming atmosphere • Luxury alpine feel

Hotel Vanessa HHHH

Hotel Vanessa is ideally located in the heart of Verbier, 350m from the Médran ski lift. Its central location allows you to sample all that Verbier has to offer, but you needn’t leave the hotel as the chic hotel bar and restaurant are perfect for relaxing in.

• Wellness centre with sauna and Jacuzzi • Fantastic central location • Free shuttle service within Verbier

Rest your head Our pick of accommodation in Verbier reflects its status as one of Europe’s most exclusive ski resorts. We’ve carefully selected some truly beautiful properties in this unique resort – with something to suit a range of budgets.

Hotel Montpelier For an unforgettable stay, opt for 5-star luxury and doorstep skiing at the incredible W Verbier, voted the World’s Best Ski Hotel two years running. Or perhaps a boutique hotel in the centre of the resort appeals? e choice is entirely yours.

Craig

Ski Specialist

HHH

A friendly, relaxed hotel offering comfortable accommodation with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, Hotel Montpelier is a ten minute walk from the village centre. e resort bus stops close to the hotel (50 metres away) making getting to and from the slopes a breeze.

• Friendly, welcoming service • Indoor pool, sauna and steam room • Perfect for individuals and groups

Verbier is an epic destination, so much so, I keep returning year after year. My top lunch spot is Chez Dany, with a beautiful sun terrace and delightfully cosy wooden interiors. It’s a little off the beaten track (a short detour from the Hattey run) but it’s well signposted and getting there feels like an adventure! It’s a popular choice so I’d recommend making a reservation and we’ll be happy to do this for you before you go.

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Verbier, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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ZERMATT MATTERHORN SKI PARADISE

Beautiful car-free streets, exceptional luxury hotels, pristine pistes spread across the SwissItalian border, soaring views of the Matterhorn – need we say more? Get ready to fall under Zermatt’s spell as you discover one of the world’s most captivating resorts.

ALT IT U DE

1620-3899m Zermatt / Matterhorn Ski Paradise SKI ABLE TERR AIN

200km / 360km NUMBE R OF RUNS

76 / 129 T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

12 / 32 48 / 83 5 / 14

AIR PORT

Geneva 3:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes Linked with the Italian resort of Cervinia, Zermatt boasts a vast 360km ski area with everything from gently undulating beginner slopes to demanding black runs and some incredible off-piste terrain. ere is a choice of beginner areas located high up on the mountain. is ensures not only great snow conditions but allows groups of mixed ability skiers to meet up easily for lunch at one of the great mountain restaurants. ere is also a fantastic choice of ski schools, many of which are British-run.

Intermediates can explore to their hearts’ content, even taking a day to ski over to Italy for lunch. Tear up long, legburning reds, dabble in some off-piste (with a guide) and head up to the ski area’s highest point at a staggering 3899m to enjoy the stunning panoramic views.

Advanced skiers and riders will find a wealth of fantastic offpiste and itinerary runs to challenge them. Why not try a heli-skiing experience to make the most of the incredible terrain in the shadow of the mighty Matterhorn?

Enjoy the resort Beautiful, picture-perfect, chocolate-box… ere aren’t words to adequately describe the alpine charm of this sensational resort. Zermatt’s narrow pedestrianised streets are lined with rustic timber chalets, historic churches and inviting shops and eateries. e perfect meeting point of Swiss tradition and modern luxury. e restaurants in Zermatt are truly outstanding, whether you’re grabbing a delicious lunch on the mountain or enjoying a relaxed evening meal in town. ere’s an eclectic flavour to the gourmet offerings, with everything from Swiss specialities to innovative seafood dishes on the menu.

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Karen

Senior Ski Specialist

Nothing quite compares to the iconic beauty of the Matterhorn, making Zermatt a hard destination to beat. I thoroughly recommend travelling by train to make the most of the scenic journey from the airport to resort. The section from Visp at the bottom of the valley up to Zermatt will take your breath away and you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the view!

Hotel Mont Cervin Palace HHHHH

In a central location just five minutes’ walk from the Gornergrat mountain railway, the iconic Mont Cervin Palace has been welcoming guests for over 150 years and prides itself on its warm atmosphere where 5-star luxury seamlessly meets home comforts. Extensively modernised in recent years, the property is a picture of alpine elegance.

• Excellent dining options • Impressive spa and indoor pool • Some rooms have Matterhorn views

Riffelalp Resort HHHHH

Sitting at the heart of the ski area and boasting stunning views of the Matterhorn, the exceptional ski-in/ski-out Hotel Riffelalp Resort is situated at 2222m and offers luxurious surroundings and excellent facilities, including a choice of restaurants. Although inaccessible by car, the hotel is easily reached from the centre of Zermatt using the Gornergrat mountain railway.

• Fantastic ski-in/ski-out location • Outdoor pool with Matterhorn views • Highest spa in Europe

e proximity to the Italian border means hearty dishes like pasta and pizza also feature highly.

Après-ski in Zermatt is certainly on the lively side, with live music, fun crowds and no end of venues. Go for a stylish wine bar, a low-key pub or something more traditional where you might even see staff wearing lederhosen.

Rest your head Switzerland is renowned for its excellent hospitality and grand hotels, and the offering in Zermatt certainly lives up to this reputation. It’s home to some of our finest 4 and 5-star luxury ski hotels, offering you the chance to relax and unwind as you enjoy seamless service and dazzling views of the iconic Matterhorn. With several elegant choices that deliver historic charm, stunning décor and refined luxury, you’ll find no shortage of hotels you’ll want to call home during your stay.

Hotel Mirabeau HHHH PLUS

is stunning hotel, offering laid-back luxury, is located very close to the train station and Gornergrat railway, allowing easy access to the slopes. Enjoy the indoor pool and Alpine Hideaway Spa or sample the delicious tasting menu in the Veranda Restaurant. ere’s also the new Marie’s Deli Restaurant serving a variety of dishes and treats.

• Excellent central location • Bar with open fire and live music • Understated elegance

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Zermatt, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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VILLARS VILLARS-GRYON-LES DIABLERETS-GLACIER 3000

A picturesque haven for families, elegant Villars sits on a sunny plateau in the Vaud Alps with views stretching from Lake Geneva to Mont Blanc. While Villars is full of refined luxury, you’ll also find it a low-key alternative to some of the glitzier Swiss resorts.

ALT IT U DE

1200-3000m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

113km T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

55km 45km 13km

AIR PORT

Geneva 1:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

Villars links to the villages of Gryon and Les Diablerets by both ski lift and mountain railway to create an extensive and varied ski area with lovely views of the Dents du Midi.

Fantastic skiing can also be found on the mighty Glacier 3000, accessible from Les Diablerets by free shuttle bus or via the slopes from Isenau.

From its timber-clad chalets to its snow-laden forests, Villars has retained a wonderfully traditional Swiss feel. e streets are safe and friendly and there’s an attractive centre with a choice of shops, bars and restaurants.

If you make it over to Glacier 3000, remember to take your camera to capture the spectacular vistas of the Alps’ most famous peaks: Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, the Jungfrau and beyond.

Although the pistes of Villars are perhaps best suited to novices and intermediates with a good choice of sunny beginner areas and plenty of lovely wide cruising runs, experts can enjoy a handful of demanding black runs and amazing off-piste terrain when the powder gods are smiling.

Villars is renowned for its excellent dining options and the warm welcome it extends to families. Choose from crowdpleasing favourites like pizza, hearty mountains dishes like fondue and raclette, and gourmet fine dining at Michelinstarred restaurant Le Jardin des Alpes at the Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa. Much of the dining and vibrant après-ski takes place within the resort’s hotels, although you’ll also find some fantastic authentic bars where you can mingle with the locals. e fun doesn’t stop when you leave the pistes in Villars.

Keep the action going with everything from paragliding,

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Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa HHHHH

ice skating and sledging to winter walks through the magnificent scenery surrounding the village. And the chic metropolis of Geneva is within easy reach for a day trip.

Rest your head We’ve chosen the most luxurious hotel in Villars, the Chalet Royalp Hotel & Spa, as our one and only featured accommodation option. Because only the best will do. Here traditional alpine inspiration blends perfectly with chic modern luxury to create a cocoon of cosy ambiance.

Karen

Senior Ski Specialist

is stunning hotel sits in a quiet location above the village and is accessible by either road or a cog-railway (during the day) which continues up to the ski area of Bretaye. Use the cog-railway to access the slopes in the morning and ski back to the hotel at the end of the day. e excellent facilities include an indoor pool with open fireplace, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, treatment rooms, a private spa (on request) and gym. e hotel caters for children very well, with activities for younger children during school holidays. ere’s also a private cinema, library and bar, as well as three restaurants, one of which is Michelin-starred.

• A Ski Independence favourite • Ideal for short breaks • Perfect for families • Excellent facilities • Chic and casual

The Swiss Ski School in Villars has an amazing choice of lessons for all ages and abilities and is a firm favourite with Ski Independence clients.

Whether you’re looking for traditional group lessons, all-day lessons for children with lunches included or some private tuition, this school caters well to all requirements. If you’d like to organise any lessons for your holiday, just let us know and we’ll be happy to help.

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Villars, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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SAAS FEE SAAS VALLEY

Surrounded by a towering backdrop of thirteen majestic peaks, the ‘Pearl of the Alps’ sits in a breathtaking location. With snow sure glacier skiing and bags of traditional Swiss character, it’s easy to see why this peaceful destination holds a special place in our hearts.

ALT IT U DE

1800-3620m Saas Fee / Saas Valley SKI ABLE TERR AIN

100km / 150km NUMBE R OF RUNS

25 / 46 T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

9 / 17 14 / 25 2/4

AIR PORT

Geneva 2:45 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resort

We love the variety, the modern lifts and the incredible quality of the snow in Saas Fee’s modest but perfectly formed ski area. With many slopes sitting above 2,500m and facing to the north, Saas Fee boasts a great snow record with plenty of light, fluffy snow for the powder hounds.

Saas Fee’s historic cobblestone streets are a joy to explore.

Free from traffic and lined with picturesque chalets, boutiques and eateries, there’s an unspoilt, civilized atmosphere to soak up.

Saas Fee is a beginner’s paradise. Learn to ski or snowboard in the beginner area by the village before heading up the mountain to practise your new-found skills on lovely wide blues, just made for cruising. Intermediates will love the slightly more challenging red runs from Mittelallalin, accessed via the highest underground funicular in the world.

Leisurely skiing and snowboarding are what relaxing holidays in Saas Fee are all about. at said, there are a few steep black runs to keep things demanding for the experts and, although limited, some guided off-piste opportunities.

Dining and après-ski are lively and welcoming, with plenty of family-friendly options, cosy bars and sun terraces where you can celebrate another great day in the mountains with a bit of Europop. ere are even a few night clubs open till late if the mood takes you.

Saas Fee has plenty to entertain non-skiers. For an unforgettable dining experience, why not visit the world’s highest revolving restaurant at 3,500m up the Mittelallalin mountain? While you’re there, visit the neighbouring Ice Pavilion with stunning ice sculptures for you to admire.

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The Capra Hotel HHHHH

Rest your head Whichever of our hand-selected properties you opt for in Saas Fee, you won’t be disappointed. e gorgeous 5-star Hotel Capra is all about refined elegance, featuring stunning rooms and suites with mountain views, fireside cocktails, mouthwatering dining and state-of-the-art spa facilities. e family-run Hotel Allalin makes you feel at home with its traditional Swiss hospitality. From the fabulous local cuisine to the cosy décor, it’s such an inviting place to return to after a day in the snow.

Morven

Ski Specialist

If you fancy a meal with a difference, check out the Waldhüs Bodmen.

It’s a short walk from the centre of Saas Fee through the trees and children will love seeing the many animals here which include a camel in the garden and a glass enclosure inside the restaurant with rabbits and guinea pigs. The only difficulty you’ll have is dragging your children away at the end of the meal!

Situated in a quiet location, this luxurious hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Saas Fee. e slopes are directly accessible from the hotel’s ski room, a conversion of a traditional barn, which is easily reached from the hotel using the complimentary shuttle service. Whilst offering all the comforts of a luxury hotel, e Capra retains a relaxed and cosy chalet-like feel.

• Peak Health Spa and indoor pool • Beautiful, understated feel • Balcony in all rooms • Private ski cabin on the slopes • Complimentary shuttle service

Hotel Allalin HHHH

Situated in the heart of Saas Fee, this family-run hotel is a favourite amongst Ski Independence clients for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional Swiss architecture and décor. e fantastic restaurant offers a buffet breakfast in the morning and six course meal in the evening. e resort shuttle bus stops by the hotel and guests also have access to a ski room at the cable car.

• Excellent half board option • Family-run hotel • Family-friendly room configurations • Traditional Swiss hospitality • Hand-carved wooden furniture

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in Saas Fee, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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THE DOLOMITES SAN CASSIANO, MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO & PINZOLO

San Cassiano

SAN CASSIANO Alta Badia / Dolomiti Superski ALT IT U DE

1540-3269m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

e awe-inspiring, dramatic, jagged peaks of the Dolomites are unlike anywhere else you’ll have seen. With some incredible ski terrain, breathtaking scenery, mouth-watering cuisine and hospitality that’s second to none, you can’t get much closer to ski paradise.

130km / 529km T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

53% / 41% 40% / 48% 7% / 11%

AIR PORT

Innsbruck 2:00 (hrs:mins)

MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO & PINZOLO Campiglio Dolomiti di Brenta ALT IT U DE

800-2444m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

150km T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

40% 37% 23%

AIR PORT

Verona 2:20 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes We’ve selected some of the best resorts the Dolomites have to offer: San Cassiano in the Dolomiti Superski area and Madonna di Campiglio and Pinzolo in the Campiglio Dolomiti di Brenta ski area.

San Cassiano: With the local 130km Alta Badia ski area on its doorstep, beginners based in San Cassiano may find no need to explore the wider Dolomiti Superski area. But for mile-hungry skiers and riders, you’ll have access to 529km of varied pistes, including the world-famous 40km Sella Ronda circuit and the epic 12km Marmolada descent, the longest slope in the Dolomites.

Madonna di Campiglio & Pinzolo: Explore the pretty western Brenta Dolomites with 150km of wonderfully varied runs. You can master the basics in the spacious beginner area at Campo Carlo Magno, before testing your

skills on the blues and reds across the wider ski area. More advanced skiers and riders will love the challenge of a ‘black day in Campiglio’, skiing out 5 of the ski area’s most challenging runs.

Enjoy the resorts San Cassiano: Of all the villages in the Dolomiti Superski area, San Cassiano is perhaps the prettiest and the most tranquil. Being so close to the Austrian border, you can expect a wonderful blend of picturesque Tyrolean charm and that famously friendly Italian welcome. Sitting at an altitude of 1,537m, the local Alta Badia slopes are within easy reach, and a wealth of beautiful accommodation and fabulous dining awaits.

Madonna di Campiglio & Pinzolo: Sitting at 1,524m on the beautiful valley floor below the towering peaks of the

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Karen

Senior Ski Specialist

If you haven’t been lucky enough to visit the Dolomites yet, you are in for a treat. The scenery in this region is the best I’ve seen of any ski resort in the world, which in itself is reason enough to visit. With first class hospitality, delicious cuisine, high quality accommodation, huge ski areas and beautifully cosy mountain huts, there are so many reasons for making this region top of your list to visit.

SAN CASSIANO San Cassiano

Hotel Rosa Alpina HHHHH

Set in the heart of this charming village, the hotel is a beautiful, understated, elegant property offering true luxury in spectacular surroundings.

• First-class service • Three Michelin-starred restaurant • Fabulous breakfast

Hotel Fanes HHHH PLUS

Just a short walk from the heart of the village and enjoying an elevated, peaceful position with stunning views, this a true mountain retreat.

• Extensive wellness facilities • 25m Sky Pool with spectacular views • Impressive wine cellar

MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO DV Chalet Boutique Hotel HHHH PLUS

San Cassiano

DV stands for the “Dolce Vita” and this chic boutique hotel certainly offers every opportunity to experience the good life.

• Panta Rei spa with small pool • Michelin-starred Dolomieu Restaurant • Complimentary resort shuttle service

Brenta Dolomites, Madonna di Campiglio is an elegant resort packed with historic character. After strolling through the attractive pedestrianised centre and admiring the stylish boutiques, stop for a well-deserved aperitivo in the square. Its neighbour, Pinzolo, sits lower down the valley at 800m. Full of authentic charm and home to a brand new 5-star resort, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Sporthotel Romantic Plaza HHHH

Located in the centre of the village, within walking distance of the ski lifts, this welcoming hotel is an ideal retreat for families and couples.

• Fantastic central location • Hydropool and spa facilities • Gourmet restaurant

Rest your head San Cassiano is home to several luxurious properties, all with excellent facilities. Choose a hotel in an elevated location above the village or in the heart of this picture-perfect resort.

In Madonna di Campiglio, we’ve chosen a selection of elegant and welcoming accommodation. With a choice of chic boutique hotels or traditional cosy mountain lodgings, there’s something to suit all tastes.

If a brand new resort and spa appeals, opt for Pinzolo, where you’ll find the latest addition to our luxury collection.

PINZOLO Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti HHHHH

Expect exceptional levels of service and comfort at this stunning new addition to the charming village of Pinzolo.

• Brand new luxury resort • Beautiful, unrivalled spa facilities • Incredible views

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in our Italian resorts, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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ARLBERG LECH & ST ANTON

St Anton

Known as the cradle of alpine skiing, the vast Arlberg massif is home to Austria’s largest interconnected ski area and the world famous resorts of Lech and St Anton.

ALT IT U DE

1304-2811m SKI ABLE TERR AIN

303km T YPE OF RU NS

Blue Red Black

130km 123km 51km

AIR PORT

Innsbruck 1:30 (hrs:mins) Timings and distances are for guidance purposes only.

Explore the slopes

Enjoy the resorts

With 303km of spectacular pistes, a state-of-the-art lift network and views to take your breath away, you could ski or snowboard all season and never get bored.

Our featured resorts of Lech and St Anton offer everything from wild nightlife to fine dining – all with a breathtaking backdrop of steeply rising snow-capped peaks.

Although the Arlberg slopes are best to suited to intermediates and experts, you’ll still find plenty of skiing suitable for beginners, particularly if you opt to stay in Lech, famous for its perfectly groomed pistes.

Lech: Although historically a favourite among royals, the picturesque village of Lech has very much stayed true to its authentic Tyrolean roots. From the picture-perfect Austrian chalets and church spires dusted with snow to the restaurants serving hearty traditional dishes like giant jamfilled germknödels, you can expect to enjoy a warm slice of alpine life. at said, you’ll also find trendy bars, luxury hotels and gastronomic dining.

One of the most exciting places in the world for advanced skiers and riders, these majestic mountains offer some of the most challenging terrain out there and are fully deserving of their cult status. Expect great powder, a wide choice of extreme runs and a huge choice of off-piste itineraries to explore (with a guide). Freestylers can choose from several snow parks, including the epic Stanton Park in the Rendl area of St Anton.

St Anton: Lively St Anton is famed for its fun-loving and wild après-ski, with a huge choice of bars and restaurants both on and off the slopes. While this vibrant resort has plenty of Tyrolean charm, especially in its scenic

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Aodhan

Senior Ski Specialist

Up for a challenge? Then the Run of Fame in the Arlberg ski area might be for you. It’s an 85km route running from St Anton all the way to Warth (via Zürs and Lech) and includes a total altitude difference equivalent to more than twice the height of Everest! Be sure to download the app before you start as you’ll need to check in at each of the three checkpoints en route to prove you’ve completed this epic journey!

LECH Hotel Kristiania HHHHH

Lech

is stunning boutique-style hotel combines contemporary living with alpine tradition, creating a warm atmosphere with excellent service. With three restaurants, why not sample the exquisite Austrian cuisine and fine wines on offer? e village centre and ski lifts are a five minute walk away but the hotel offers a free shuttle service if you prefer.

• Exceptional service • Each room decorated in a unique style • Small private spa area

Hotel Panorama HHHH

In a quiet location, five minutes from the resort centre, the family-friendly Hotel Panorama is a cosy hotel with a welcoming and homely atmosphere. A shuttle bus runs nearby providing easy access the village centre and ski lifts. Facilities include a spa area and bar where you can enjoy a drink and complimentary afternoon snacks.

• Vita Panorama wellness area • Complimentary afternoon ‘skier snack’ • Traditional Austrian hospitality

Lech

pedestrianised centre, there’s a global vibe with an international crowd and equally eclectic dining from Mexican to Japanese. For the best party in town, you simply have to visit the wild and legendary Moosewirt bar!

Rest your head We’ve selected a wide choice of first class accommodation for you in the Arlberg region, with something to suit everyone.

In Lech we’ve hand-picked some stunning 4 and 5-star hotels throughout the village. Styles vary from contemporary boutique chic to traditionally alpine, but you’ll find a warm welcome wherever you choose. In St Anton you’ll find a range of accommodation in a choice of locations across the resort – it’s up to you how close to the après you want to be!

ST ANTON Raffl’s St Antoner Hof Hotel HHHHH

Centrally located just off the main pedestrian street, this family-run hotel combines contemporary design with traditional Tyrolean hospitality priding itself on impeccable service with a unique flair. Indulgence is positively encouraged by the award-winning chef at the gourmet Stubn restaurant and there’s a cosy inhouse bar where expert mixologists create colourful cocktails.

• Wellness area with indoor pool • Centrally located close to ski lifts • Upmarket but relaxed atmosphere

You’ll find more information about accommodation and travel options in our Austrian resorts, as well as guide pricing and special offers, on our website at www.ski-i.com

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Booking Conditions and Important Information We are Osprey Holidays Ltd trading as Ski Independence. ("We", "us" and "our") of 21 Logie Mill, Edinburgh EH7 4HG. In these Booking Conditions references to "you" and "your" include the first named person on the booking and all persons on whose behalf a booking is made or any other person to whom a booking is transferred. A ‘package’ and ‘lack of conformity’ have the same meaning as in the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 and ‘arrangements’ are all the holiday and other arrangements detailed on your confirmation (including any additions or amendments).

Please take time to read these Booking Conditions and any booking confirmations and other documentation as they form the basis of your contract with us for the travel arrangements making up your booking. By making a booking, you agree to be bound by it.

If you require any clarification, please just call us on 0131 243 8097.

Validity The holidays covered by these booking conditions operate within the period 1 November 2019 to 15 May 2020.

Key Terms The Key Terms of our agreement are: (1) You will enter into a binding contract with us when we issue our confirmation invoice. If you then cancel your arrangements, you will be required to pay cancellation charges. Initially this will be the deposit you paid to secure your arrangements, but after you’ve paid the balance of the price of your arrangements, these charges could increase up to 100% of the cost of them; (2) You can make changes to your confirmed arrangements in certain circumstances. We will make a charge for processing these changes; (3) We may make changes to and cancel your confirmed arrangements but we will provide suitable alternatives and pay you compensation in certain circumstances if we do so; (4) We are responsible for making sure your confirmed arrangements are not performed negligently but there are some limits on and exceptions to this.

Changes to Price, Brochure and Website Details We reserve the right to make changes to and correct errors in advertised prices and other information at any time before your holiday is confirmed. We’ll advise you of any error of which we are aware of and then the applicable price at the time of booking. You must therefore check all details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time of booking. We will not be liable for booking errors which are attributable to you or which are caused by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances as defined in the clause bearing that title.

Deposits USA/Canada/Japan: To confirm your booking we require a deposit of £150 per person or 15% of the holiday price, whichever is greater.* Please note if your booking includes flights with British Airways travelling in Club World or First we may require the full payment of the flight element in addition to our normal deposit requirements.

Europe: To confirm a booking we require a deposit of £75 per person for apartment bookings, £150 per person for hotel bookings or 20% of the holiday price, whichever is greater.* *Deposit amounts may be higher if we make non-refundable commitments for you at the time of booking. Don’t worry, we’ll tell you in good time if this is the case.

Payment The balance of your holiday cost must reach us no later than 10 weeks before departure or in the case of bookings made within ten weeks of departure full payment must be made at the time of booking. If we do not receive all payments due in full and on time, we are entitled to treat your booking as cancelled by you and will be entitled to keep all deposits paid at that date. If we do not treat your holiday as cancelled straight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay the cancellation charges detailed below depending on the date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled. Any money paid to an authorised agent of ours in respect of a booking including flights is held by that agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times, but subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us for as long as we do not fail financially. If we do fail financially, any money held at that time by the agent or subsequently accepted from the consumer by the agent, is and continues to be held by that agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us.

The price you pay We reserve the right to amend the price of unsold holiday arrangements at any time and correct errors in the prices of confirmed holidays The price of your confirmed arrangements is subject to variations which occur solely as a direct consequence of changes in:(a) the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from the cost of fuel or other power sources; or (b) the level of taxes or fees on your confirmed arrangements imposed by third parties not directly involved in the performance of the package, including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports.

Price variations will be calculated by applying the cost differential we experience as a result of the above factors. Prices may go up or down and we will notify you about any variation by sending you a calculation explaining the variation no less than 20 days before you are due to depart.

If your arrangements are a package, and if that means that you have to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your arrangements (excluding any insurance premiums, amendment charges and/or additional services), we will offer you the options in ‘amendments and cancellations by us’. In respect of packages we will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges. If prices go down as a result of the above factors, we will make a reflective refund, but we will also deduct our administrative expenses from what is owed to you and this may extinguish the value of the refund due. Also, note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on price due to contractual protections in place.

Your contract A binding contract between us comes into existence when we issue our holiday booking confirmation to the party leader or your travel agent. This contract and all matters arising out of it are governed by Scottish law. If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, proceedings may be brought in the Courts of your home country and in this event, you may choose to have your contract governed by the law of England or Wales/Northern Ireland as applicable. In all cases, any dispute, claim or other matter which arises out of or in connection with this contract or your holiday may be dealt with under the ABTA Arbitration Scheme (see below).

Special requests Special requests relating to your arrangements must be advised to us at the time of booking and confirmed to us in writing. Whilst we will try to meet any reasonable special requests, we cannot guarantee that they will be fulfilled. Special requests that have been noted on your confirmation or any other documentation do not amount to a promise to meet that request. A failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically confirmed.

Disabilities and medical problems If you or any member of your party has any medical problem or disability which may affect your chosen arrangements, please provide us with full details before we confirm your booking so that we can try to advise you as to their suitability for you. We will give you information about whether the arrangements you have chosen are generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility but if you or any member of your party has any precise medical problem or disability which may affect your chosen arrangements, please provide

us with full details before we issue our confirmation. We will only provide precise information on the suitability of the trip or holiday taking into account your needs if you specifically request us to do so. Acting reasonably, if we are unable to properly accommodate your needs, we will not confirm your booking and/or if you did not give us full details at the time of booking, we will treat it as cancelled by you when we become aware of these details.

Amendments and cancellations by us Where we refer to a ‘price reduction’ in this clause and in the clause headed ‘Our Responsibility’, we mean that we will give you an appropriate reduction in the price you paid for the arrangements affected for any period during which there was lack of conformity, (unless that lack of conformity is attributable to you). Where we refer to ‘compensation’, we will pay you appropriate compensation without undue delay for any damage which you sustain as a result of any lack of conformity subject to the limitations and exclusions in section B of the clause headed ‘Our Responsibility’.

We reserve the right to change or cancel your booking (but we will not cancel after you have paid the balance of the cost of your arrangements unless there are unavoidable or extraordinary circumstances, or where you have failed to pay the final balance when due).

Changes and cancellations before departure Most changes will be insignificant and we reserve the right to make them. We will have no other responsibilities to you in respect of any insignificant changes.

Examples of “insignificant changes” made before departure include: a change of outward departure time or overall length of your arrangements of twelve hours or less; a change of accommodation to another of the same standard or classification.

Occasionally we may have to make a significant change to your confirmed arrangements and we reserve the right to do so. A significant change is one where we significantly alter any essential element of your arrangements (other than the price) owing to circumstances beyond our control. Examples of “significant changes” made before departure include: a change of accommodation area for the whole or a significant part of your time away; a change of accommodation to that of a lower standard or classification for the whole or a significant part of your time away; a change of outward departure time or overall length of your arrangements of twelve hours or more; a significant change to your itinerary, missing out one or more destination entirely; where we or our supplier can no longer fulfil any special requirements that we have accepted and confirmed on our confirmation invoice and this will have a significant impact on your arrangements; where we increase the price of your arrangements by more than 8% of the price of your arrangements (excluding any insurance premiums, amendment charges and/or additional services).

If we have to make a significant change or cancel before departure, we will inform you without undue delay and if there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options: (i) (for significant changes) agreeing to the changed arrangements; (ii) accepting the cancellation or terminating the contract for the arrangements and receiving a refund (without undue delay) of all monies paid; or (iii) accepting an offer of alternative arrangements of comparable standard from us, if available.

(In the event that any proposed change or alternative offered results in a reduction or increase in the price you have agreed to pay or an increase or decrease in the quality of arrangements we have agreed to provide, we will also notify you of any price reduction or additional amount due).

You must notify us of your choice within 7 days of our offer. If you fail to do so, we will contact you again, re-iterating the above choices and sums payable or refundable and if you again fail to respond within 7 days, we may terminate the contract and refund all payments made by you without undue delay.

Subject to the exceptions detailed below and where your arrangements are a package, we will where appropriate, pay you the compensation set out below, subject to the limitations and exclusions in section B of the clause headed ‘Our Responsibility’.

Compensation before departure per adult based on the period of notification is as follows: More than 8 weeks = Nil; Within 8 weeks = £20; Within 6 weeks = £30; Within 4 weeks = £40; Within 2 weeks = £50.

We will not pay you compensation where: (i) we make a significant change or cancel before you have paid the final balance of the cost of your arrangements; (ii) we make a significant change or cancel as a result of unavoidable or extraordinary circumstances as set out in the clause bearing that title; (iii) we cancel your arrangements no later than 20 days before they are due to start because the minimum number of participants to run them has not been reached.

We will not make a price reduction or pay you compensation; and the above options will not be available where: (i) we make an insignificant change; (ii) we cancel as a result of any failure by you (including a failure to make payment in accordance with these terms); (iii) where the change(s) or cancellation by us arises out of alterations to the confirmed booking requested by you.

Changes and cancellations to package arrangements after departure If we become unable to provide a significant proportion of your package arrangements after you have departed, we will try to offer you suitable alternative arrangements of, where possible, equivalent or higher quality than those specified in the contract. If the alternative arrangements we make are of a lower quality than those you originally booked, we will make a price reduction. Where our original agreement included return transport we will also provide you with equivalent transport back to your place of departure without undue delay or additional cost. You may reject the proposed alternative arrangements only if they are not comparable to what we originally promised to provide or if the price reduction we offer is inadequate. Where we are unable to make suitable alternative arrangements or you reject the proposed alternative arrangements in accordance with this clause, where appropriate and only where your arrangements are a package, we will pay you compensation subject to section B of the clause headed ‘Our Responsibility’.

Where we are unable to ensure your return from a package as agreed because of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances which directly prevent you from returning to your point of departure, we will bear the cost of necessary accommodation if possible of equivalent category for a period not exceeding (a) 3 nights per traveller (exceptions apply in respect of persons with reduced mobility and people travelling with them, pregnant women and unaccompanied minors, as well as persons in need of specific medical assistance, provided that we have been notified of their particular needs at least 48 hours before the start of the package); or (b) where a different period is specified in any passenger rights legislation applicable to the relevant means of transport for your return, for the period specified in that legislation.

Cancellation by you Should you decide to alter your booking after our confirmation has been issued we’ll do our best to accommodate you. If your arrangements are a package and if any member of your party is prevented from travelling, that person(s) may transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you and satisfying all the conditions applicable to the arrangements, including an agreement to these booking conditions) providing we are notified in writing not less than seven days before departure and you pay an amendment fee and meet all costs and charges incurred by us and/or incurred or imposed by us or any of our suppliers.

Both you and the person to whom you would like to transfer your arrangements shall be jointly and severally liable for the payment of any balance due and for any additional fees, charges or other costs arising from the transfer. If you are unable to find a replacement, cancellation charges as set out below will apply in order to cover our estimated costs.

Otherwise, no refunds will be given for passengers not travelling or for unused services.

For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines do not permit name changes after flights have been held for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of the flight. The names on your holiday booking confirmation must bear the same title, first name and surname as your passport. If you alter your arrangements after you depart from the UK, then you may have to pay additional costs locally.

If you cancel your booking prior to departure then the following charges will apply: 70 or more days = loss of deposit; From 69 to 43 days = loss of deposit + 35% of holiday balance; From 42 to 31 days = loss of deposit + 50% of holiday balance; From 30 to 22 days = loss of deposit + 75% of holiday balance; From 21 days or less = 100% of holiday cost.

If we need to apply different cancellation terms from the above to your booking we will inform you in advance of booking and in writing. Where the cancellation charge is shown as a percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling excluding any amendment charges. Amendment fees are not refundable in the event of the person(s) to whom they apply cancelling. Notice of cancellation must be received in writing and will be effective when it is received by us. Clients are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance offering protection against cancellation.

Where any cancellation reduces the number of full paying party members below the number on which the price, number of free places and/or any concessions agreed for your booking were based, we’ll recalculate these items and re-invoice you accordingly.

You may cancel any package arrangements prior to their commencement (following the process outlined above) in the event that (i) circumstances amounting to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (as set out in the clause bearing that title) are occurring at the place where your arrangements are due to be performed or its immediate vicinity; (ii) those circumstances make it impossible to travel safely to the travel destination, and; (iii) if the performance of your arrangements will be significantly affected by those unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. Note that we will take into consideration any advice from the Foreign Office to avoid or leave a particular country in determining whether or not you may cancel your arrangements under this clause. In this event, you will receive a refund without undue delay of any payments made but this the maximum extent of our liability and we regret we cannot meet any other expenses or losses you may incur as a result.

Complaints and disputes In the unlikely event that you have any reason to complain or experience any problems with your holiday whilst away, you must immediately inform the supplier of the service(s) in question, or Ski Independence. You should then follow up any complaint in writing to us within 28 days of your return to the UK. Your rights may be harmed if complaints are not notified entirely in accordance with this clause.

We are a Member of ABTA, membership number V3690. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of registering your complaint with us; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.

Unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions we will not be liable or pay you a price reduction or compensation if our contractual obligations to you are affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of the party who seeks to rely on them which we or the supplier(s) of the service(s) in question could not avoid even if all reasonable measures had been taken. These events can include, but are not limited to war, threat of war, civil strife, terrorist activity and its consequences or the threat of such activity, riot, the act of any government or other national or local authority including port or river authorities, industrial dispute, lock closure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, chemical or biological disaster and adverse weather, sea, ice and river conditions and all similar events outside our or the supplier(s) concerned’s control.

Advice from the Foreign Office to avoid or leave a particular country may constitute unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances.

Assistance to those travelling on a package in the event of difficulty or unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances Where you have booked a package, we will provide appropriate assistance without undue delay in the event that you experience difficulty including where you are unable to return to your agreed point of departure because of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances which directly prevent you from doing so. Such assistance will extend to providing appropriate information on health services, local authorities and consular assistance; and helping you to make distance communications and to find alternative travel arrangements.

We will charge a reasonable fee for such assistance if the difficulty is caused by you intentionally or as a result of your act or omission.

Our responsibility A. Our responsibilities differ according to what you have booked: In relation to bookings of Packages We accept responsibility as an “organiser” under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. Subject to these booking conditions, if we fail to arrange or perform your package arrangements in accordance with our agreement, we will remedy any resulting lack of conformity. If that is impossible or entails disproportionate costs (taking into account the extent of the lack of conformity and the value of the arrangements affected), we will instead pay you compensation subject to clause B of this clause.

In relation to all other bookings In respect of non-package bookings, we have a duty to select the suppliers of the services making up your booking with us using reasonable skill and care. Except as stated otherwise in these terms, we have no liability to you for the actual provision of the services, except in cases where it is proved that we have breached that duty and damage to you has been caused. Therefore, providing we have selected the suppliers using reasonable care and skill, we will have no liability to you for anything that happens during the service in question or any acts or omissions of the supplier, its employees or agents.

Please note in relation to all bookings: it is your responsibility to show that we or our supplier(s) have been negligent if you wish to make a claim against us, and; it is a condition of our acceptance of the responsibility above that you inform us and the supplier(s) concerned without undue delay of the lack of conformity you perceive; and allow us a reasonable period in which to remedy it.

B. Limitations and exclusions of responsibility In these terms and conditions, our responsibilities are limited, and our duty to pay compensation is limited and excluded as follows: We will not be responsible, make a price reduction or pay you compensation for any lack of conformity, injury, illness, death, loss, damage, expense, cost or other claim of any description if it results from: (a) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected; (b) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party unconnected with the provision of your arrangements and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable; or (c) Unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances as set out in the clause bearing that title.

We will not be responsible, make a price reduction or pay compensation: (a) for services or facilities which do not form part of our agreement or where they are not advertised by us. For example any excursion you book while away, or any service or facility which your hotel or any other supplier agrees to provide for you. (b) for any damage, loss or expense or other sum(s) of any description which on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your arrangements prior to them being confirmed, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract with you; or that relate to any business.

Any price reduction or compensation that is payable will be calculated taking into consideration all relevant factors for example (but not limited to): (a) whether or not you have followed the complaints and notifications procedure as described in these conditions.

It is a condition of our acceptance of liability under this clause that you notify any claim to ourselves and our supplier(s) strictly in accordance with the complaints procedure set out in these conditions. (b) the extent to which ours or our employees’ or suppliers’ negligence

Credits: Cover Roman Tyulyakov, Proalps; 2-3 Christoph Schöch Photography; 4-5 © Laurent Salino, Zermatt Tourist Office; 6-7 Philippe Gal; 10-11 Tom Cohen/Vail Resorts; 14-15 Grant Gunderson DBC, Mike Crane Photography, Vincent Edmond Stane Productions; 16-17 Mike Crane Photography, Justa Jeskova, Tourism Whistler; 18-19 Brad Kasselman - coastphoto.com; 20-21 Destination BC Albert Normandin, Destination BC Tanya Goehring; 22-23 © 2018 Andrew Strain, Vail Resorts Tom Cohen; 24-25 Travis N Rosseau, Village, Travel Alberta / Mike Seehagel; 26-27 Travel Alberta / John Price, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise; 28-29 Marmot Basin Ski Resort/Ryan Bray, CTC, Travel Alberta/Mike Seehagel; 30-31 Jack Affleck, Eric Seymour, Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka Photography; 32-33 Destination BC Reuben Krabbe, Sam Egan (Cedar Line Creative), Sam Egan; 34-35 Geoff Holman, Big White Ski Resort; 36-37 Destination BC Blake Jorgenson, Destination BC , Revelstoke / Ryan Creary, Dave Heath, Destination BC Nolan Gale; 38-39 Destination BC/Kari Medig, Panorama Mountain Resort, Matt Clark Stirl and Rae Photo; 40-41 Blake Jorgenson, Noel Hendrickson, Whistler HeliSki; 42-43 Andrew Maguire/ Vail Resorts, Copyright © Unknown photographer/Vail Resorts; 44-45 Jack Affleck, Daniel Milchev/Vail Resorts, Vail Resorts; 46-47 Matt Power, Jordan Curet, Tamara Susa; 48-49 Roman Koenigshofer, Catherine Aeppel, Squaw Valley; 50-51 Scott Markewitz Photography, ©Mark Maziarz, Visit Park City; 54-55 Christoph Schöch Photography copyright by www.christophschoech.com; 56-57 IDM Südtirol/Harald Wisthaler; 58-59 Courchevel Tourisme/Patrice Mestari, IDM Alto Adige/Alex Filz, verbier.ch / Melody Sky; 60-61 Les 3 Vallées/David ANDRÉ; 62-63 Cyril Cattin, OT Val Thorens/B.Longo, Pierre Morel / www.pierremorel.net; 64-65 Les 3 Vallées/David ANDRÉ, Alexis Cornu Photography, Baptiste Assémat; 66-67 Thibaut Loubere/Avoriaz Tourisme, Nicolas Joly, Oreli.b; 68-69 ©Loic Bouceht; 70-71 Michael Portmann, Cyrille Quintard, Tignes ; 72-73 © Val d'Isère Andy Parant; 74-75 Stephane Cande; 76-77 Andy Parant, (c) Tristan Shu www.TristanShu.com, Pete Webb 2013; 78-79 OT Flaine - M.Dalmasso, Les Carroz, © Christian Martelet; 80-81 Christian Martelet, OT Flaine - M. Dalmasso; 84-85 nuts.fr, Megève Tourism/Simon Garnier; 86-87 © Laurent Salino, Alpe d’Huez; 88-89 Max Coquard-Bestjobers, Gilles Lansard, Pierre Raphoz; 90-91 PASCAL LEBEAU, David Machet; 92-93 Pete Webb - MERCI Visual, Avoriaz Tourisme; 94-95 verbier.ch / Melody Sky, Yves Garmeau; 96-97 Pascal Gertschen .ch, Kurt Müller, Michael Portmann; 98-99 David Carlier, José Crespo, D.CARLIER / davidcarlierphotography.com, Roman Tyulyakov, Proalps; 100-101 PPR Media Relations, Saastal Tourismus; 102-103 IDM Alto Adige/Alex Filz, IDM Alto Adige/Alex Moling, IDM Alto Adige/Manuel Kotterstegerv; 104-105 Josef Mallaun, Lech mit Omeshorn (c) Lech Zürs Tourismus.

Call our Ski Specialists on 0131 243 8097

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affected the overall enjoyment of your arrangements. (c) deduction that we must make to take account of any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from any transport provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question.

(Please also note that where any payment is made, the person(s) receiving it (and their parent or guardian if under 18 years) must also assign to ourselves or our insurers any rights they may have to pursue any third party and must provide ourselves and our insurers with all assistance we may reasonably require.)

Claims covered by an international convention When arranging transportation for you, we rely on the terms and conditions contained within any applicable International Conventions. The extent of or the conditions under which compensation is to be paid or liability accepted will in all cases be limited as if we were carriers under the appropriate Conventions, which include The Warsaw/Montreal Convention (international travel by air); The Athens Convention (with respect to sea travel); The Berne/Cotif Convention (with respect to rail travel) and The Paris Convention (with respect to hotel arrangements). You can ask us for copies of these Conventions.

Any other claims which don’t involve injury, illness, death or damage caused by us or our suppliers intentionally or negligently; or other liability that can’t be limited by law, the maximum amount we will have to pay you in respect of all such claims is three times (twice in the case of arrangements which aren’t packages) the price paid by or on behalf of the person(s) affected in total. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you or your party has not received any benefit at all from your arrangements.

Accommodation Star Ratings We have used our own common-sense star rating for each of our featured properties.

This rating should not be used as a price guide, nor is it based on the facilities on offer. It is the Ski Independence assessment of the standard of the property compared to others in the market we know. Additional images and information on the properties in the brochure are available at www.ski-i.com

Insurance Under no circumstances should you travel without comprehensive ski insurance cover.

We are not permitted to recommend a policy, however we can introduce you to a broker - MPI Brokers. The policy offered by MPI Brokers meets our booking conditions on insurance. To obtain a quote by phone please call MPI Brokers on 0845 180 0055 and mention Ski Independence. Ski Independence is an introducer of Michael Pettifer Insurance Brokers Limited t/a MPI Brokers, who are authorized and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Ski Independence does not advise on any insurance products.

eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for travel to Canada Under Canada’s new Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program, citizens from countries other than the USA who do not require a visa to enter Canada will need to obtain an online authorisation before flying to Canada. Canada is making every effort to ensure that eTA does not greatly inconvenience affected travellers. The application process will be quick and easy at a low cost of only $7 per person, and the eTA will be valid for up to five years.

Travellers will apply online, providing basic personal information similar to what is currently collected when they arrive in Canada. eTA is convenient and paperless, which means most visa-exempt nationals who wish to travel to Canada will have their eTA granted within minutes of applying. Having obtained an eTA, travellers to Canada can expect faster service

0131 243 8098

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upon arrival at the border. Apply for your eTA - please see www.Canada.ca/eta. Full information and instructions on how to apply for eTA will also be enclosed with your travel documentation. You must have your eTA in place before travelling to Canada.

ESTA Electronic System for Travel Authority (mandatory for travel to, or via, the USA) All passengers travelling to the USA must apply on-line for authority to travel. You must have ESTA travel authorisation prior to departing for the USA. To get ESTA travel authorisation complete the online form at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, (note the ‘s’) where a decision will normally be given within seconds. The US Department of Homeland Security recommends that applications be submitted no less than 72 hours prior to travel. ESTA is an automated system used to determine the eligibility of visitors for travel to the United States. There is now a fee payable for this service. Approved ESTA travel authorisations are valid for two years and allow for multiple trips to the US. However, a new ESTA authorisation will have to be obtained if an individual has a new passport within the twoyear period or if any answers to the yes/no questions on the ESTA application form change within this period. You cannot travel to the USA without prior ESTA travel authorisation.

Please remember that it is your personal responsibility to ensure you have ESTA travel authorisation in place at least 72 hours prior to travel. Without ESTA travel authorisation, you may be refused entry to the USA.

Visas British Citizens do not need a visa to visit other European countries. British Citizens do not need a visa to enter the USA, Canada or Japan providing your stay is no longer than 90 days duration. All British Citizens will be issued with the appropriate US or Canadian Customs forms, either at check-in or on the aircraft. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with the entry requirements. On arrival in the USA all visitors will have their index fingers scanned and a photo taken to verify their identity. If you were born in the USA and are travelling on a passport other than a US one, then you must carry a ‘Loss of Nationality letter’ with you. For information contact the US Embassy. If you are travelling to Canada with any children who do not have the same family name or as a single parent with your children then you must carry a letter confirming your right to be travelling with them. For information contact the Canadian High Commission (www.canada.org.uk).

Entry forms for Japan will be issued board the aircraft. For information visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan (http://210.163.22.165/index.html and then click on ‘visa’). If you are not a British Citizen or are unsure about visa requirements, you must contact the appropriate Embassy Visa Department without delay. Unfortunately, Ski Independence cannot answer any questions or provide advice on any immigration issues.

Passports British Citizens need a valid full 10 year machine-readable passport to travel to Europe.

The USA, Canada and Japan require a valid full 10 year machine-readable passport with a minimum of three months validity left from the date of arrival in the country. Children must have their own passport.

Your behaviour If in our opinion or in the opinion of any person in authority, your behaviour is causing or is likely to cause distress, danger, damage or annoyance to any third party or property, or to cause a delay or diversion to transportation, we reserve the right to terminate your arrangements immediately. In the event of such termination our responsibilities to you

will cease and you will be required to leave your accommodation or other service immediately. We will have no further obligations to you and will not meet any expenses, costs or losses incurred as a result. You may also be required to pay for loss and/or damage caused by your actions directly to the applicable supplier prior to departure from the service. If you fail to do so, you will be responsible for meeting any claims and costs subsequently made against us as a result.

Data Protection statement We have measures in place to protect the personal booking information held by us. This information will be passed on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements who may be outside the EEA. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. We’ll only pass your information on to persons responsible for your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. (If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, whether in the EEA or not, then we’ll be unable to provide your booking). In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant person. Full details of our data protection policy are available upon request.

Your financial protection (1) We provide financial protection for our flight inclusive package holidays, by way of our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number 0749. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we aren’t able do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).

If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme.

You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the nonprovision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.

(2) We provide financial protection for our non-flight inclusive package holidays by way of an ABTA bond held by International Insurance Company of Hannover.

Phone

0131 243 8097

Email

ski@ski-i.com

Web

www.ski-i.com