OLYMPIC-THEMED TRAVEL As the 2014 Winter Olympic Games kick off in Sochi, there’s no better time than now to release your inner-Olympian with a winter holiday that gives you the chance to experience some of the best winter sports the world has to offer. These five picks offer a range from holidays for true adrenaline junkies to options for those who desire a more relaxed winter getaway. Whether you want to stay in the biggest skiing region in the world at Les Trois Vallées or adventure across to Canada’s top ski-resort, SUITCASE has the perfect Olympic-inspired holidays: For the Giant Slalom Racers: Advanced skiers who want to improve their downhill racing techniques can experience an intense training week with professional race coaches on the famous La Tania Stade run, which was originally built for the 1992 Olympics at the incredible Courchevel 1650 resort. After a hard day, relax in the fully-catered Chalet Le Misti, which includes unlimited house wine. You’ll need the rest between the six hours of Giant Slalom training throughout the week, which all leads to a competitive knockout session. Prices start from £410 per person; more details at powderwhite.com
For the Aspiring Bobsled Team Player: The bobsledders dream is hidden in La Plagne, located in the French Alps in Tignes. Offering an Olympic bobsledding track that gives visitors the chance to race down by either bob-rafting in a unique self-piloted/ braking vehicle that can fit up to four people; speed-luging in a half-sitting, half-lying position that can descend up to 90km/h; or the challenging bob-racing, an experience of descending up to 120km/hour while sitting behind a professional driver. Get ready for your competitive streak to be released. Prices start from €1260 per room based on two adults sharing. Bobsleigh sessions cost from €41 per person for up to eight people; more details at powderwhite.com
For the Figure Skating Champion: This is the holiday for the aspiring figure skater. Enjoy the luxury of Canada’s finest resorts at Whistler and Vancouver in British Colombia surrounded by the beautiful Rockies, where one can show off figure skating talents at Trout Lake Ice Rink, which was recently renovated for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. This package allows you to spend 2 nights at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia followed by six nights at the luxurious Four Seasons Whistler. Prices start from £2,350 per person, incl. return flights and private car transfers. Skating at Trout Lake Ice Rink costs from £5 per person, incl. skate rentals; more details at scottdunn.com For the Freestyler in Training: For the perfect place to practice your favourite tricks, whether you’re a skier or a boarder, try the famous Le Snowpark in Tignes. This snow park, used by the best during the X Games, also served as the Canadian team’s HQ as they trained for the Sochi Olympics. Enjoy a possible chance to pick up tips and inspiration for your own aspirations, followed by a relaxing night at the L’Ecrin des Neiges in Tignes. Prices start from €172 per person (based on six people sharing). A one day lift pass starts from €47 per adult; more details at powderwhite.com
For the Ski Champion’s Retreat: Founded by former Olympic gold medal winning skier Othmar Schneider, The Kristiania offers your chance to enjoy the sights and slopes of picturesque Austria. Take inspiration from the Olympic medals on display at the hotel and learn more from Schneider’s daughter, who now serves as the hotel manager. The resort is complete with cross country skiing and access to the famous White Ring circuit as well as hard-skiing runs, not to mention the complimentary bottle of champagne that comes with each hotel room. Prices from €360 per night and €210 for a single in a B&B basis, incl. bottle of champagne in room, complimentary mini-bar, Wi-Fi and snow shuttle van; more details at kristiania.at