SKIING FOR
SCHOOLS
01527 837066 www.skiwise.net
2010/11
2
WELCOME It’s been an exciting year at STI Skiwise. After another great season on the slopes, we’ve also been delighted to receive the LOTC Quality Badge Award and Assured Status of the School Travel Forum as official recognition for the hard work and commitment of our team. Despite the continued economic uncertainty, we’re pleased to say that we're taking away more school trips than ever before, when lots of operators are struggling.
Contents AUSTRIA Altenmarkt/Zauchensee
4
Wagrain
5
Obervellach
6
Auffach/Oberau
7
FRANCE Villard de Lans
8
Les Deux Alpes
9
Morzine/Avoriaz
10
ITALY 11
Passo Tonale Falcade
12
So what makes STI Skiwise different?
Aprica
13
Well, mainly it’s the personal service. Taking a hands-on approach to everyone we work with is important. We’re not too big – so you won't just feel like a number – but we’re big enough to give you a fantastic amount of quality and choice. We’re flexible enough to offer a budget that’s realistic and small enough to care. That’s why so much of our business comes from referrals, repeaters and recommendations! Oh, and by the way, we introduced our 100% no surcharge guarantee even though we took a hit with the fall in the pound, so that none of our schools had to pay a penny more than we’d said. Just because we felt it was the right thing to do.
Folgaria
14
Montecampione
15
From friendly advice, inspection trips and presentation evenings to a fabulous experience in resort, Martyn and his team are here to help. Plus you’ll have the peace of mind of working with an AiTO bonded operator, that’s been helping schools for nearly 20 years! Here’s some more good news to finish. Did you know that you can now enjoy more ski time on your 2011 trip in fewer days and for less money?
HOW TO BOOK A simple guide
Call us now to find out how we can save you £s and why more and more schools are putting their faith in us.
FREE PLACES, ASCL COURSES & INSPECTION VISITS Our 1:7 free place ratio for coach tours is already the best around, but we also offer group leader family concessions as an additional perk as well. Thereʼs free assistance with the planning and preparation of your trip and a free in house après-ski package too. Whatʼs more, we offer ad hoc informal inspection visits to our resorts throughout the season, which are fully refundable when you book your trip with us. By popular demand another ASCL course is being planned again next winter and more of our free regional ski and sport presentation evenings are also being scheduled. Please see the ʻWhatʼs Includedʼ section opposite and call us now for further details.
18
YEARS Sports travel since 1992
SWITZERLAND Saas Fee
16
BULGARIA Borovets
17
IMPORTANT INFORMATION Guidance notes 18
SPORT & SKI DEAL
19
SAVE
As school sports specialists – hereʼs an incredible double deal to match our unbeatable service. Refer us a sports tour from the school and both groups can save a bundle! Subject to the numbers travelling, we can save the school as much as £1,000. Why not talk it over and see whoʼs planning what in the near future. Our fantastic packages include everything from pro-coaching, tournaments, festivals and tours. Now would be the perfect time to get in touch. Terms and conditions apply – please ask for details.
£1000
WELCOME
WHAT’S TYPICALLY INCLUDED: ▲ STI Skiwise representative ▲ Executive coach transportation from door to door ▲ Return Dover-Calais ferry crossings ▲ 6 nights full board accommodation ▲ Extra dinner on departure day ▲ 6 days lift pass for skiing CZECH REPUBLIC
Destinations
▲ 6 days x 4 hours instruction ▲ 6 days ski equipment hire
Altenmarkt Zauchensee
GERMANY
▲ STI Skiwise insurance ▲ Parents’ evening presentation
AUSTRIA Auffach/Oberau
Wagrain Obervellach Falcade Passo Tonale SLOVENIA Morzine/Avoriaz Folgaria Montecampione Villard ITALY Les Deux Alpes de Lans FRANCE
SWITZERLAND Aprica Saas Fee
▲ In house après ski package N.B. Flight trips also include: ▲ 1 extra night accommodation ▲ return flights from the UK ▲ return airport transfers abroad
FREE PLACES & CONCESSIONS: ▲ 1:7 free staff place ratio BULGARIA
(coach tours)
Borovets
GREECE
▲ 1:10 free staff place ratio TURKEY
(flight tours) ▲ Group leader family concessions
SAFETY ON SCHOOL VISITS A MAJOR INITIATIVE TO HELP TEACHERS AND SCHOOLS The School Travel Forum is a group of leading school tour operators who promote good practice and safety in school travel. All Assured Members of the STF adhere to a rigorous Code of Practice and Safety Management Standards and are externally verified each year by suitably qualified independent Health and Safety professionals. Choosing an STF Assured Member ensures teachers and schools are meeting the requirements of DfES and Scottish Executive guidelines and that they can delegate important tasks with confidence. During the course of developing the STF Code of Practice, and in addition to liaising with the DfES, advice has been sought from all leading educational Unions and Associations. The STF initiative is welcomed by the Outdoor Education Advisors Panel (OEAP) and the DfES. It has the support of the ASCL, NAHT, ATL, NUT, PAT and the NASUWT advises members wishing to organise school trips to use companies that have this type of scheme.
Sports Travel International Ltd. t/a STI Skiwise is an Assured Member of the School Travel Forum. Supported by NAHT, ASCL, ATL, NUT and PAT Details of the School Travel Forum Code of Practice are available from us on request.
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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4
AUSTRIA
Highlights ▲ Superb hotel leisure facilities ▲ Vast ski area ▲ Traditional Austrian village ▲ Doorstep skiing in Zauchensee
Ski Facts ★★★★
Advanced Intermediate
★★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★★
Snow making facilities
yes
Number of lifts
120
Marked runs
320km
Village altitude Top station
856m 2240m
Altenmarkt Altenmarkt is situated at the heart of the Sportwelt Amadé ski region. Being at 856m above sea level guarantees skiing from the beginning of December to the end of April. Altenmarkt & Zauchensee were the venues for the Alpine World Cup finals in 2002 due to the fantastic variety of slopes available.
Hotel Ennstalerhof
The Skiing Altenmarkt is a perfect base to access the Ski Amadé region, regarded by most British professional skiers and coaches as some of the best skiing in Europe. There are slopes for all abilities, with the Flachau base station only a 5 minute drive from the hotel. Doorstep skiing is available from Zauchensee.
Après Ski The Ennstalerhof hotel in Altenmarkt offers swimming, ice-skating and tubing, weather permitting. A visit to the Amadé ʻWorld of Waterʼ in nearby Wagrain is always a popular choice. Bowling is also on offer in several hotels in the area including the Zauchenseehof.
Hotel Zauchenseehof
Accommodation You will be staying at the Hotel Ennstalerhof about 10 minutes walking distance from the centre of the village. This comfortably furnished sport hotel is specially designed to cater for youth groups and offers a high standard of accommodation. The hotel boasts its own swimming pool, cinema, disco, gym and table tennis rooms. Alternatively, hostelstyle accommodation is available in Zauchensee with the attraction of doorstep skiing. www.sportwelt-amade.com
Also see page 5 for Sportwelt Amadé piste map
AUSTRIA
Highlights ▲ Vast ski area ▲ Walking distance to après ski ▲ Doorstep skiing
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★
Intermediate
★★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★★
Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs
yes 85 320km
Village altitude
850m
Top station
1991m
Wagrain Wagrain is situated in the Sportwelt Amadé ski region in Austria. At 850m, the resort guarantees skiing from December through to April. The picturesque town boasts many shops, restaurants and bars and from here you can ride the gondolas to two separate mountains!
Pension Oberwimm
The Skiing Enjoy doorstep skiing from your hotel. Wagrain is a perfect base to access the Ski Amadé region and some of the finest skiing in Europe is to be found here. There are slopes for all abilities with the nearest gondola lift only a 100m walk from the hotel.
Après Ski The Amadé ʻWorld of Waterʼ swimming complex and ice-skating are both within walking distance of the Oberwimm. The accommodation itself has its own disco and can provide toboggans on request. Tubing is also possible at our other hotel in Altenmarkt. Bowling is available at several hotels in the area.
Pension Striedlhof
Accommodation Pension Oberwimm is situated about 5 minutes walking distance from the centre of the town. This comfortably furnished pension, with private facilities in all rooms, caters ideally for youth groups. Facilities include games room and indoor basketball court. Further accommodation is also provided at the Pension Striedlhof. Groups have sole occupancy here and all bedrooms have private facilities. www.sportwelt-amade.com
Also see page 4 for Sportwelt Amadé piste map
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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AUSTRIA
Highlights ▲ High Austrian pistes ▲ Skiing for all abilities ▲ Glacier skiing
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★★
Intermediate
★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★
Snow making facilities
yes
Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station
18 90km 680m 3022m
Obervellach Obervellach is not one of Austria’s best known ski resorts but offers some of the highest skiing areas in Carinthia. The small town has multi coloured buildings along the main high street giving it a typical Tyrolean feel. There are several shops, cafes and restaurants.
Hotel Bodner
The Skiing Two good ski areas are only a short coach ride away from the hotel. The Ankogel has a great beginnerʼs area while the Molltaler Glacier reaches over 3000m. Both areas boast well groomed pistes from late November through to the end of April, with the Molltaler glacier offering skiing all year round!
Hotel Alpenhof
Accommodation The 3 star Hotel Bodner is ideally situated to enable easy access to the two main ski areas. The hotel offers a warm and friendly welcome. All rooms are en-suite and have televisions and telephones. The hotel is only a short drive from Obervellach and the local après ski. www.flattach.at
Après Ski The area offers a variety of après ski including swimming, bowling, and indoor ice skating.
AUSTRIA
Highlights ▲ Great choice for beginners ▲ Excellent après ski ▲ Superb value for money
Ski Facts Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station
★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ yes 26 70km 782m 1903m
Auffach/Oberau Oberau is situated at 936m above sea level and lies in the centre of the Wildschönau ski area. Our pensions are based in Mühltal, a short bus journey to the Auffach ski area with Oberau and Neiderau a five and ten minute bus ride away respectively. Oberau village has shops, bars and restaurants but maintains its family feeling throughout the season. The Skiing This superb ski area offers a variety of skiing for all abilities with Oberau offering excellent slopes for the beginners, Auffach being an ideal base for intermediates and Neiderau providing a greater challenge for the more adventurous skier.
Après Ski Swimming is available at the brand new arena in Worgl. Floodlit ice skating, tobogganing and bowling are also close at hand.
Pension Schwaighof
Accommodation The Pension Schwaighof with 70 beds offers basic but comfortable accommodation with private facilities in all the bedrooms. The pension is only a few minutes walk from the village of Mühltal. In favourable conditions, advanced groups can ski all the way back to the Schwaighof. Other accommodations offered here include the Pension Angerhof which boasts en-suite facilities in most rooms and the Pension Steinerhof. www.wildschoenau.com
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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8
FRANCE
Highlights ▲ Excellent variety of pistes ▲ Hotels in tranquil location ▲ Superb après ski
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★
Intermediate
★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★
Snow making facilities
yes
Number of lifts Picture © F.Oddoux
Marked runs
27 125km
Village altitude
1050m
Top station
2050m
Villard de Lans The beautiful French villages of Villard de Lans and Corrençon stretch out along the foothills of the Grande Moucherolle mountain, standing at 2285m. Villard de Lans is the home club of Olympic 2002 downhill Champion, Carole Montillet, who is thrilled to be able to recommend her local resort to our school groups. The Skiing The ski area in Villard and Corrençon is forever growing with investment in new lifts and new slopes being added year on year. Beginners are spoiled for choice here both in Rambins village and the new area in Ribambel. Intermediates and advanced skiers can access the mountains from 4 separate areas – Hotel Les Mélèzes
Accommodation We have 3 hotels in the area, each of which provides a comfortable and friendly base for school groups to explore the region. The hotel Les Girard has 100 beds, all en-suite and is situated 4km outside the village centre. The hotel La Source is only a 5 minute walk from the centre and offers sole occupancy for groups of 40 persons, while for larger groups, hotel Les Mélèzes can accommodate up to 70. www.ot-villard-de-lans.fr
Les Glovettes, Cote 2000, Clos de la Balme and Corrençon village. Après Ski This is a great resort for school groups with an abundance of après ski available. Activities here include bowling, ice skating, swimming and a fantastic new tubing park.
FRANCE
Highlights ▲ Glacier skiing ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ Top premier resort ▲ Excellent après ski
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★★★
Intermediate
★★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★★
Snow making facilities
yes
Number of lifts
59
Marked runs
225km
Village altitude
1650m
Top station
3568m
Les Deux Alpes Les Deux Alpes is a very popular snow-sure resort offering excellent high altitude skiing on the Mont De Lens glacier at over 3200m. From here there are magnificent panoramic views of Mont Blanc, Ventoux and the Ecrins mountain range. The village itself nestles between the steep ski slopes and the ‘Diable’ gondola is a short walk from your chalet. The Skiing Fantastic skiing can be found here in one of Franceʼs premier ski resorts. With 220km of piste and the glacier standing at 3200m above sea level, there is a superb variety of slopes to suit all ages and abilities.
Après Ski This lively village offers an abundance of après ski to keep your group busy for the whole week. Traditional favourites include ice skating and swimming, both of which are free with your lift pass, as well as tobogganing and bowling – all within easy reach of your chalet.
Accommodation The Chalet Saint Benoit is just a 5 minute walk from the foot of the gondola and heart of the village. All the bedrooms are en-suite, mostly for 6 persons sharing. There is a games room here with table football and table tennis, television room and a large self-service restaurant looking out over the glacier of La Muzelle. ʻLes Chamoisʼ accommodation in nearby Venosc offers sole occupancy with 75 beds. The chalet is only a 5 minute walk to the gondola which takes you up into the ski area of Les Deux Alpes. www.les2alpes.com
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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FRANCE
Highlights ▲ Extensive ski area ▲ Great après ski ▲ Traditional alpine village
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★★
Intermediate
★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★
Snow making facilities
yes
Number of lifts Marked runs
95 220km
Village altitude
1000m
Top station
2460m
Morzine/Avoriaz Situated midway between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva these lively alpine villages form a part of the immense traditional ski area ‘Portes du Soleil’. With the neighbouring village of Les Gets there is over 200kms of varied piste to suit skiers of all ages and abilities from Morzine. Groups can now ski Avoriaz too.
Chalet Les Flocons
Accommodation Chalet Les Flocons offers comfortable group accommodation for up to 90 guests in 2-4 person en suite bedrooms. There are several games and television rooms as well as a staff meeting room, basketball court and disco. The chalet is situated just 300m from the centre of Morzine and half a mile to the ski station, linked by the free shuttle service. Alternatively, the chalet ʻLes Chevreuilsʼ, which is situated halfway between Morzine and Avoriaz, gives groups the option of skiing either resort.
The Skiing The huge ʻPortes du Soleilʼ is a stunning ski region made up of many separate ski villages in France and over the border into Switzerland. With over 200kms of pistes, the ski area encompassing Morzine and Les Gets will offer you a fantastic week of skiing. The Avoriaz ski pass is available as an alternative or at a supplement to encompass all the ʻPortes du Soleilʼ area.
www.morzine.com
Après Ski Here in Morzine and the neighbouring Les Gets there is plenty of après ski ideal for school groups. Activities include indoor and outdoor ice skating, bowling, swimming and tobogganing. Your friendly chalet hosts can also organise a barbecue on the pistes and a flavour of local French cuisine.
ITALY
Highlights ▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ High altitude with stunning scenery ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ Lively après ski
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★★
Intermediate
★★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★★
Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station
yes 29 120km 1883m 3069m
Passo Tonale Passo Tonale is one of Italy’s highest ski resorts standing at over 1800m above sea level. It is a purpose built resort high above the tree line and boasts the spectacular Presena glacier which guarantees snow and allows skiing through the summer too. The village has a good choice of bars and shops and remains a favourite with school groups. The Skiing The resort is excellent for beginners with slopes on both sides of the valley enabling easy and quick progression. The north facing slopes cater predominantly for beginners and intermediates whilst the south facing slopes provide more challenging terrain
for the better intermediate and advanced skiers. Après Ski There is a large choice of après ski available here including ice-skating, swimming and bowling as well as plenty of local shops and bars.
Hotel Piandineve
Accommodation Our accommodation is based in the 2 star Hotel Biancaneve with en suite bedrooms. From here you are within walking distance of the lift system. Groups can relax in the games/video room. For groups looking for a little more luxury, an upgrade is possible to the 4 star Hotel Piandineve. Here you can enjoy doorstep skiing by day and the disco, health suite, multi-gym and sauna in the evening.
www.passotonale.it
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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ITALY
Highlights ▲ High altitude ▲ Ideal for beginners and intermediates ▲ Stunning scenery
Ski Facts Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs
★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ yes 27 100km
Village altitude
1190m
Top station
2513m
Falcade The resort of Falcade is situated in the heart of the 3 Valli Dolomiti ski region and is an excellent resort for schools. The village is steeped in history with many older buildings giving the resort a lovely traditional feel. There are several local bars, shops and restaurants.
Hotel San Giusto
The Skiing The 3 resorts of Falcade, Passo San Pellegrino and Moena provide a superb variety of slopes for all abilities. With 100kms of slopes to choose from, our groups are certainly spoilt for choice with long blue and red runs leading down to the three valley bases.
Hotel Pineta
Accommodation The 3 star Hotel San Giusto is just 500m from the ski lifts. There are 100 bedrooms in the hotel. Facilities here include games rooms, theatre, disco, gym and a small swimming pool. The 3 star Hotel Pineta is situated in the centre of the picturesque village and just a 5 minute bus journey to the slopes. www.falcadedolomiti.it
Après Ski An après ski package is available with swimming at the San Giusto hotel and also at the local pool. Outdoor ice skating is only a short walk from the San Giusto and snow tubing is on offer from a local mountain lodge.
ITALY
Highlights ▲ Hotel close to ski lifts ▲ Ideal for beginners and intermediates ▲ Superb après ski
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★
Intermediate
★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★
Snow making facilities Number of lifts
yes 16
Marked runs
55km
Village altitude
1181m
Top station
2300m
Aprica The resort of Aprica is situated in the heart of the Valtellina ski region. With the Palabione mountain towering above, the village still occupies a wonderful sunny position in the valley. Aprica is an excellent addition to our programme and is an ideal base for school groups.
Hotel Antares
The Skiing Following the addition of several new lifts, the extended network now enables easier access to the beginners slopes. There is a superb variety of pistes throughout the resort with the beautiful tree lined runs up at Piana de Galli as well as some big wide slopes leading to the Palabione lifts down in the village.
Après Ski An après ski package is available with the modern indoor pool, sports complex and floodlit ice skating rink all nearby.
Accommodation The 3 star Hotel Antares is just a few hundred metres from the ski lifts and offers door step skiing. There are 52 bedrooms in this accommodation, all offering private facilities. The hotel also has two games rooms, theatre and bars.
www.aprica.it
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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ITALY
Highlights ▲ Great resort for school groups ▲ Ideal for beginners and intermediates ▲ Superb après ski
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★
Intermediate
★★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★★
Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs Village altitude Top station
yes 46 100km 1179m 2060m
Folgaria The resort of Folgaria is situated in the highlands of Trentino. The elegant village has style and character and is full of historical interest and charm. The ski lift system has developed over the last few years and provides a large interlinked area to suit all ski abilities.
Hotel Miramonti
The Skiing With recent new investment and new lift systems, the resort now offers a fantastic range of skiing to cater for all abilities. There are the beautiful tree lined slopes up at Serrada or the big wide open slopes at Fondo Piccolo to choose from. With more improvements planned, Folgaria is enhancing its reputation as being one of the best resorts for school groups in Italy.
Hotel Monte Maggio
Accommodation The 3 star Park Hotel Miramonti is one of five hotels in and around the resort of Folgaria that we can offer. All the hotels offer private facilities in the rooms and have excellent leisure facilities. The ski lifts are just a short coach journey from all the hotels.
www.folgaria.net
Après Ski An après ski package is available with swimming, ice skating at the newly built rink and bowling. There is a sports centre in Folgaria itself too.
ITALY
Highlights ▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ Panoramic views ▲ Hot lunches available ▲ Swimming pool at the hotel
Ski Facts Advanced Intermediate Beginners/Children Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs
★★ ★★★★ ★★★ yes 11 60km
Village altitude
1200m
Top station
2010m
Montecampione Montecampione is one of Italy’s newest and most exclusive purpose built ski resorts and easily accessible by the motorway network from Milan. The hotel enjoys a fantastic location at the bottom of the slopes with the benefit of doorstep skiing. The small village has several shops and pizzerias, and ice-skating and swimming for après ski.
Hotel Montacampione
Swimming pool at Hotel Montacampione
The Skiing The resort is interconnected over four mountains and has 60km of pistes to suit all abilities. Most of the skiing is above the tree line, offering fantastic panoramic views over the Presolana mountains. The nursery slopes and blue run are directly behind the hotel for doorstep skiing. Après Ski Ice skating can be organised in the resort, while there is an excellent swimming pool at the hotel. Ten pin bowling is an evening excursion away from the resort if required.
Accommodation The 3 star Hotel Montacampione 1200 has a fantastic location in the centre of the village and has the added advantage of doorstep skiing. The hotel can accommodate up to 300 people, all in en-suite rooms with television. Other facilities include swimming pool, TV room, disco and sauna. www.montecampione.it
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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SWITZERLAND
Highlights ▲ Guaranteed snow ▲ All year round skiing ▲ Charming traffic-free village
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★★★
Intermediate
★★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★★
Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs
yes 36 100km
Village altitude
1800m
Top station
3600m
Saas Fee Saas Fee is situated 1800m above sea level and is surrounded by wonderful glacial formations. With skiing at over 3000m this resort offers a fantastic range of skiing for all abilities. The small town is full of charm and character and is a safe and tranquil traffic-free zone. The Skiing Called ʻthe pearl of the Alpsʼ, Saas Fee is ringed by 13 separate peaks of 13,000ft where the snow is permanent throughout the year. There is an abundance of slopes to keep all grades of skier happy throughout their stay. The beginnersʼ slopes are nestled on the edge of town with the intermediate and Hotel Europa
Accommodation The 3 star Hotel Europa offers 100 beds and all rooms have private facilities. There is also a cozy dining room, bar and restaurant. The sauna and steam baths will help you relax after a busy day skiing. The hotel boasts wonderful panoramic views of the glacier and itʼs just a few minutes walk to the village.
www.saas-fee.ch
advanced slopes reached by gondolas and the funicular railway. Après Ski A package is available with swimming at the leisure centre in Saas Fee and tobogganing close by the hotel. Ice skating and bowling are on offer in the nearby village of Saas Grund.
BULGARIA
Highlights ▲ Excellent resort for beginners ▲ Doorstep skiing ▲ Great value for money
Ski Facts Advanced
★★★
Intermediate
★★★★
Beginners/Children
★★★★
Snow making facilities Number of lifts Marked runs
yes 20 40km
Village altitude
1350m
Top station
2713m
Borovets Borovets is Bulgaria’s oldest and best established ski resort dating back to the 19th century. Situated on the Northern slopes of the beautiful Rila mountain at an altitude of 1350m, the town is now internationally renowned. With a consistently good snow record, variety of skiing and excellent après ski, it’s great value for money for schools.
Hotel Breza
The Skiing The well developed lift system of Borovets carries up to 16,000 tourists per hour and provides quick access to the ski lifts. The mountain slopes total over 40km and have lasting snow cover from November through until May. The ski area offers an excellent variety of runs for every level of skier.
Après Ski There is a wide variety of après ski available including, swimming, bowling, ice-skating and discos. A traditional Bulgarian folk evening can be organised on request in one of the many local cafes and bars.
Hotel Mura
Accommodation The Hotel Breza is wonderfully located in the centre of the resort, just a short walk from the gondola. With the benefit of doorstep skiing, the hotel also offers sole occupancy for groups, with a capacity of approximately 50 beds. All bedrooms have private facilities. Alternative accommodation at the Hotel Mura is also available. www.borovets-bg.com
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION There are many key ingredients to your ski trip and choosing your preferred destination from the previous pages is naturally an important decision. While the specific package inclusions will be outlined in your individual ʻSchool Ski Trip Proposalʼ, some of the common elements are highlighted below.
ACCOMMODATION We have a varied selection of accommodations on offer throughout the brochure, all of which have been visited by STI staff or our representatives and checked for their suitability for our groups. These include hotels, pensions, hostels and chalets in many different destinations. Most bedrooms are en-suite although some units may have shared washroom or toilet facilities along the corridor. As local accommodation classifications vary in different countries, please read the descriptions carefully or ask us for further details before deciding whether a particular destination is right for you and your group. Our packages are normally based on a full board basis. Subject to confirmation this means that you will receive breakfast and dinner daily at your accommodation, from where you will also take a packed lunch each day. An extra dinner is included before you leave at the end of your trip (coach tours only).
TRAVEL COACH: Your travel arrangements are an important part of your tour, and it is our belief that you should travel in comfort and safety. Unlike some operators, an executive coach is included free of charge in your tour price, for door to door travel throughout the tour. Your coach will typically be equipped with seatbelts, reclining seats, video (or DVD), stereo, air circulation system, microphone and toilet. Tour drivers are also an important part of the tour, so you should find your drivers to be experienced, friendly and reliable. Many groups request the same drivers time and again. Where coach travel is provided by suppliers in overseas countries, we contract reputable local companies to handle all the necessary journeys including airport and excursion transfers as stipulated, but while they comply with local regulations, please bear in mind that these may be different to standards here in the UK. FERRY: We use the ferry services of P&O Ferries and SeaFrance from Dover to Calais (75-90 minutes) for most of our tour groups. With refurbished and improved vessels, you can eat and drink on board in comfort as you sail across to mainland Europe. We also use the fast and popular Eurotunnel service (35-40minutes from Folkestone to Calais) although a supplement is sometimes required for groups wishing to use this service. FLIGHTS: As ATOL holders (5675) we are delighted to be able to offer our groups flight-inclusive packages to many of our favourite destinations. We use a range of different airlines from major national carriers such as British Airways and Alitalia to the nofrills airlines including Ryanair, easyJet and Jet2. As well as a huge selection from London, there are a number of possibilities from regional airports around the UK. However, although we will always take into consideration your preferred departure airport or travel time, we cannot guarantee this especially as many bookings are accepted in advance of airline schedules and route confirmations being released. Please also bear in mind that there may be very little flexibility in booking seats with a number of these airlines. As such, any requests for passenger name changes after a booking has been received may well be subject to substantial amendment fees as imposed by the airlines and such conditions are outside of our control. Our packages do not allow for the carriage of ski equipment which would need to be booked separately at a supplement. You will be advised of the weight restrictions imposed by your airline, and any surcharges that may be appropriate on confirmation of your flight details, on final payment.
SKI NOTES SKI TUITION: Our standard ski trip packages all include 4 hours tuition on each of 6 days unless otherwise stated on your proposal and confirmation.
Lessons are provided on the basis of 1 instructor to every 12 pupils. Staff places and/or concessions do not count towards this instructor/pupil ratios. If agreed with the instructors you may, at your own discretion, request to vary the group sizes within your party, to take account of any uneven split of ages and abilities. Extra instructors may be available at a supplementary charge on request. Each 2 hour instruction time allocation may be marginally less as local instructors may require time to transfer to another group, in accordance with local regulations. Our arrangements do not oblige our ski instructors to remain with your group during the lunch break although they may on occasion choose to do so. It is a condition of booking that as party leader, you agree that pupils will ski or snowboard only on marked and patrolled pistes and be supervised at all times while skiing either by your partyʼs teachers, providing they are competent skiers, or by the appointed ski instructors contracted by us on your behalf. SKI EQUIPMENT: Our standard ski trip packages all include the hire of skis and boots for 6 days, unless otherwise stated in your proposal and confirmation. As party leader you accept responsibility for ensuring that all your party is present at the appointed time for the safe fitting and collection of equipment and for the return of the same when appropriate and advised to do so. The condition of equipment should be checked prior to acceptance and again on return and any damages settled with the supplier direct if required. Lost or damaged goods may be covered under insurance, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. Equipment, including details of sizes required must be ordered in advance to guarantee availability in resort. Those individuals requiring sizes larger than boot size 11 may wish to give consideration to bringing their own ski boots as the stock of bigger sizes is always extremely limited. HELMETS: For a number of years there has been considerable debate on the subject of whether helmets should be worn for all snowsports (alpine skiing, snow-boarding, snow-blading). Until now, the same authorities have required only those that use snowboards or blades, or where the law of the country so dictates, to wear helmets. Currently, young people under the age of 14 must wear helmets in Italy and in many parts of Austria. The Federation Internationale de Ski (FIS) now strongly recommends that all skiers and snowboarders, regardless of ability and age, use helmets. The AfPE (Association for Physical Education) has recently also advised its members that helmets should be worn. The majority of the members of the Snowsports England Schools and Youth Committee voted to recommend to the governing body that the wearing of helmets should be recommended. Helmets must be correctly fitted and appropriate for purpose. These may be rented in advance from us and fitted by specialist suppliers on location. SKI PASSES: Many ski lift companies now require a list of all pupilsʼ names and dates of birth on school headed paper, to be prepared in advance and brought with you as party leader, if not supplied in advance. Individual photos may also be required. The ski areas covered by lift passes as advised and advertised by us may occasionally be subject to change. Any such change resulting from amendments made by local lift companies or resort authorities is strictly outside our control and we can accept no responsibility for any reduction in ski area caused by any such amendment or decision. SNOW CONDITIONS: We cannot accept responsibility for snow or weather conditions which may affect skiing, boarding, skating or other such activities during your trip. Should bad weather and local conditions dictate that your ski and/or other contracted activities not be possible, then we will attempt to organise for transfers within the region to accommodate you, subject to regional limitations. You may be covered for piste closure by your insurance, subject to the terms and conditions of your policy. The decision of your ski school or instructors on the suitability of snow
conditions is final and we accept no responsibility for your party whatsoever for any action taken by you, which is not wholly in accordance with these conditions. HEALTH & SAFETY: You should seek medical advice if you are in any doubt about your fitness to travel and participate in the activities on the trip. For those travelling to high altitude resorts, it is your responsibility, if you deem relevant, to contact your doctor in advance, as individuals may encounter difficulties at high altitude. Travellers from the UK should travel with an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) – the replacement for the E111. Eligible travellers from the UK are entitled to receive free or reduced-cost medical care in many European countries on production of a valid EHIC card. Application forms are available at the Post Office or online at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers. Please also refer to the ʻHealth Advice for Travellersʼ booklet available from Post Offices for more information. Further details on travelling abroad can be obtained by visiting www.fco.gov.uk/travel which provides important information including health and safety issues. SKIWISE REPS: A STI Skiwise rep is included as part of your package and someone will be allocated to your group. The role of the rep is to help you in resort with the organisation of your accommodation, ski and après ski arrangements. The ski rep may travel out with you from the UK, or meet with you on arrival at your accommodation. The rep cannot act as a member of your staff or assume responsibility for your students but will undoubtedly become an invaluable member of the team during your stay. All reps are selected for their suitability in working with school groups. APRES SKI: Après ski, including but not limited to, swimming, ice-skating, tobogganing and other events or activities that you may wish to take part in during your trip, can often be organised in advance, or prebooked to ensure availability. However, even if paid for or recommended by us, they do not form part of your package and are provided by outside suppliers. As such, participation in these is entirely at your own risk. DOCUMENTATION & PHOTOS: You will be required to send us various details and documentation in the booking process and between booking and departure and your prompt attention to these is vital to ensuring the smooth running of your trip. A full passenger list is required to insure your party, inclusive of dates of birth and also at the point of booking for flight tour packages. A full list of names and dates of birth should also be supplied on school letterhead. A set of individual passport sized photos is also recommended. STAYING SAFE & BEHAVIOUR: Group leaders, staff and pupils alike must take reasonable care for their own safety at all times. Being in a foreign environment on a school trip can be very exciting, but any tour brings with it certain risks which you should attempt to minimise. Furthermore, in signing the booking form you are also agreeing to our terms and conditions with reference to the conduct of your group, including but not limited to damages and behaviour. It must always be made absolutely clear to parents that skiing has inherent risks, that falls will happen and that people can get hurt through no fault of their own or anyone else. Perhaps of far greater importance than protective equipment is following the FIS Ski-way Code, ensuring that skiers and boarders are in control and that their speed is limited to their ability and the situation. TRAVEL INSURANCE: It is vital that everyone in your group travels with adequate cover. This is why our comprehensive ski trip travel insurance is included within your package. The full terms, conditions, and exclusions are incorporated within the certificate. Further details are shown in our ʻBooking Guidelines & Pricesʼ document, and you can see a full copy of the policy in advance if you wish.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Contact us
HOW TO BOOK
Sports Travel International Ltd, Enterprise House, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1QW, England
Here is a simple step by step guide to booking your trip with STI SKIWISE
Sales 01527 837066
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Once you have read the brochure, and are interested in one or more of the trips we are offering – please call us to discuss the most suitable arrangements for your group, or to arrange a meeting.
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Having decided where and when you wish to travel, and checked with us for availability, we will send you an individual ski trip proposal reconfirming the provisional details for the trip and outlining the package inclusions. You will normally be offered a short option on the reservation subject to dates and destination.
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Complete and return the booking form with your first non-refundable deposit payment. The initial deposit required is £80 per person (coach tours) and £100 per person (flight tours). A full passenger list (names per passport) must be supplied at this stage (flight tours).
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We shall send you a ski trip Confirmation and Invoice.
Operations 01279 661700 Email ski@stisport.com
TAKING YOUR SAFETY & SECURITY SERIOUSLY The safety and wellbeing of our clients is a priority. Procedures are in place to make sure that we take every precaution possible to ensure best practice for the preparation, organisation and operation of your trip. ▲ Coach company checks including licence, insurance and safety documentation ▲ Accommodation audit reports and inspections to assess fire, safety, hygiene and suitability ▲ Training, experience and professionalism of our staff and representatives ▲ Accident and emergency procedures and 24 hour assistance ▲ Encouraging you to take a staff inspection visit ▲ Free Before You Go Safety Guide ▲ Fully bonded by AiTO Trust (coach tours) and ATOL (flight tours) for your financial security ▲ Members of AiTO and adherence to the quality charter of the association
A second deposit instalment is due 8 weeks after your initial booking. The amount required at this stage is £100 per person (coach tours) and £150 per person (flight tours). All deposits are strictly nonrefundable. Name change fees for flight tours are subject to the terms of the individual airline.
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You will be sent a Passenger List and Ski Information roster, which needs to be fully and accurately completed.
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Your final payment with Passenger List (if not already supplied) and nominated pick up point map (coach groups only) must be with us no later than 10 weeks before your departure date.
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We will happily organise a Parents Evening at the school. Should this not be possible for any reason, we will send you a full Powerpoint Presentation instead to ensure everything is covered.
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Your Provisional Tour Details will be sent once your final balance has been received, outlining travel times and accommodation.
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Your Final Tour Information pack and Itinerary will be sent out to you approximately 7 days before departure.
BONDING, INSURANCE AND WHY YOUR TOUR MONIES ARE SAFE WITH US... Tour companies are bound by local and European legislation to ensure that your monies paid to us in respect of your tour are fully protected. While our reputation and experience mean that your monies are in very safe hands, you should also carefully read the following sections which confirm that as a company, we have arrangements in place to ensure the financial security of our clients. Please do not travel with a company that is not fully bonded. Flight-Inclusive Packages The air holidays and packages in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 5675. Please see our booking conditions for more information. The price of our flight-inclusive tour packages includes the amount of £2.50 per person as part of the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. See more on ATOL at www.atol.org.uk. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. Coach or land package tours We are fully bonded for the package holidays organised by us which do not contain a flight element. Our membership of the AITO Trust scheme means that if you are travelling by sea or land or even if you have booked your own flights, your holiday package booked with us will have full financial protection. Note: the flight element is not covered in the event of the failure of the airline with which you have booked your own flights directly. For further details visit www.aito.com.
QUALITY CHARTER – THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Our member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating. Exclusive Membership AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct. Financial Security An AITO member is required to protect money paid by customers to the member for any holiday sold under the AITO logo. This protection applies to customers who are in the UK at the time of booking or to overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. Members have to comply with UK Government Regulations in this respect. Members submit details of their bonding or guarantee arrangements to the Association on a regular basis. Sports Travel International Ltd. is a member of The Association of Independent Tour Operators. Visit the website at www.aito.co.uk to find out more about the association.
Call us on 01527 837066 or visit our website www.skiwise.net
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For a copy of our latest brochures please call 01279 661700 or visit our website www.stisport.com www.skiwise.net www.stisport.com Sales 01527 837066 Operations 01279 661700 Sports Travel International Ltd, Enterprise House, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1QW, England
Email ski@stisport.com
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