Winter in Châtel: Skiing—and so much more

Châtel · Portes du Soleil

A Thousand Ideas, Twelve Desires

A snow-covered playground

Snow in all forms

In winter, Châtel is blanketed in white and becomes a veritable snow-covered playground. Of course, there’s skiing—one of the world’s largest ski areas is right at your fingertips. But to reduce Châtel to just its slopes would be to miss the point: here, a thousand and one ways to enjoy the snow await skiers and non-skiers alike, young and old. Whether you’re a snow sports enthusiast or simply a lover of snow-covered landscapes, the resort has something to fill every day. Let us take you on a journey to experience winter in a whole new way.

Skiing, the star of the show

Skiing and snowboarding in the Portes du Soleil

You can’t talk about winter without mentioning the king of winter sports. From Châtel, you have access to the Portes du Soleil, one of the largest ski areas in Europe, with “ski-in/ski-out” connections to Avoriaz and Switzerland.

 

It’s a virtually endless playground, where beginners and experienced skiers alike can find slopes suited to their skill levels, from fun-filled areas to long, scenic runs.

 

The resort’s diversity means you can ski for several days without ever taking the same route twice, moving from one village to another as you please. Now it’s time to explore everything else, because winter in Châtel goes far beyond the marked trails.

Snow fun, done differently

Unusual snow sports

In Châtel, there are countless ways to glide down the slopes. The resort offers activities such as snooc, yooner, airboard, snake gliss, telemark skiing, ski touring, and even night skiing. The yooner—a sort of snow kart where you sit close to the ground—and the airboard—a snow bodyboard—are accessible to everyone and provide an instant thrill.

When the slopes close, head to the base of the Pierre-Longue chairlift for a 5-km downhill run led by instructors. Even more unique: electric mountain biking on snow, with an instructor, in the morning or at night. There are so many ways to rediscover the joy of winter sports, even for those who thought they’d tried it all.

Away from the slopes

Snowshoeing and walks in the snow

To get away from the slopes, there’s nothing quite like a snowshoe hike through sleepy forests and alpine meadows. Nighttime hikes under a starry sky have a special charm: a muffled silence, a bluish glow, and the feeling that you have the mountains all to yourself.

 

Nordic sports enthusiasts aren’t left out: cross-country skiing—whether classic or skate-style—is available at the La Chapelle-d’Abondance Nordic Center, with introductory lessons and biathlon events available by reservation. It’s another way to experience winter— a gentler, more contemplative one— ideal for immersing yourself in nature at your own pace.

A Magical Interlude

Dog sledding and Nordic experiences

Here’s one of the most magical winter experiences. Under the guidance of a certified musher, you ’ll learn to drive a sled pulled by 3 or 4 dogs, or you can sit back and relax in a sled pulled by about ten dogs while the musher introduces you to life with the pack.

 

It’s a peaceful, intimate getaway— perfect for families. Interacting with the dogs, gliding silently across the snow, and taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes make for an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.

 

The kind of experience that turns a simple trip to the mountains into a memorable one.

Family Happiness

Family Fun: Sledding, Ice Skating, and Snow Fun in the snow

Châtel spoils families all winter long. Sledding runs, an ice rink, a snow playground for toddlers, and play areas throughout the resort: there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re on skis or not.

 

Those first sled rides are often the most cherished memories of a ski vacation. You don’t have to be an experienced skier to enjoy winter in Châtel: the resort is designed so that every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, can have fun in the snow.

For adventurers

Thrills in the mountains

For adrenaline junkies, winter also has plenty of thrills in store. The Fantasticable, a giant zip line, operates even in the snow, allowing you to soar over the ski area. And for those looking to take it a step further, Châtel’s high-mountain guides offer freeride, ski touring, mountaineering, and ice climbing excursions.

 

It’s the perfect way to experience the mountains at their wildest, guided by professionals who know the mountain range like the back of their hand. For adventurers looking to push their limits, these experiences open the door to a winter experience far more intense than the marked trails.

Cozy pleasures

Après-ski and relaxation

Winter in Châtel is also about savoring the moment. Starting at 6 p.m., a friendly welcome reception brings vacationers together in the heart of the village over a glass of wine or a cup of hot chocolate, and the bars and restaurants keepthe evening going in a relaxed atmosphere.

Looking to unwind? The Forme d’O aquatic center, located in the heart of the village, combines sports, relaxation, and wellness all year round.

And what could be better than a delicious raclette by the fireplace to round off a wonderful day on the slopes? It’s these simple pleasures, enjoyed after a day of activity, that make a mountain vacation so special.

A Carefree Winter

Savoya Services for a great winter

That's where we come in. Our four unique chalets are located 600 meters from the slopes and are served by a free shuttle that stops right at the lodges.

We make it easy for you to purchase ski passes and on-demand activities, share our knowledge of the area, and pull out all the stops when it comes to dining.

A little extra treat for relaxing after a day on the slopes: a private hot tub in the Alpina chalet. And of course, your pet stays for free! Everything has been thought of so you can enjoy the snow with peace of mind, without worrying about the logistics.

Ready for winter?

All that's left to do is choose your dates

Whether you’re an avid skier or simply a snow lover, Châtel has plenty to keep you busy every day. With 600 km of slopes in the Portes du Soleil, snowshoeing excursions, dog sledding, and evenings by the fire, you can tailor your winter experience just the way you like it.

 

Tell us what you're interested in, and we'll give you the best recommendations and put you in touch with our partners. The mountains are waiting for you.

Compare
to make
the right choice:
Max Capacity21775
Patio
Fully equipped kitchen
Bedrooms8332
Bathroom4221
Separate restroom3221
Raclette/fondue set
Jacuzzi———
Smart TV
Xbox———
Number of parking spaces8221
Fireplace———
Coffee makerSenseoNespressoNespressoNespresso
Crib + high chair
Washing machine———
Dishwasher
Beer tap———
Wi-Fi
HeatingOn the groundRadiatorsRadiatorsRadiators
Meal Delivery
Location on siteLower sectionIntermediate LevelIntermediate LevelUpper section
Short stay
View this chalet View this chalet View this chalet View this chalet

Our Reviews

See what our guests say

Tourism

Discover Châtel

Hiking, skiing, biking, yoga… There are a thousand and one things to do in Haute-Savoie. Whether you’re staying in one of our fully equipped chalets or just a short walk from your vacation spot, we’ll guide you and offer advice so you can enjoy the vacation of your dreams!

Back to top
Have a question? Write to us! Morgane and Floriane, owners of Savoya Lodges