Châtel in the Spring: The Mountain Awakens
Our Secret Season
When the Mountain changes its face
Spring is our “secret” season. As the air grows milder and the Alps gradually shed their white mantle, Châtel takes on a new look without losing any of its magic.
As the slopes close one by one, the resort undergoes a transformation but doesn’t fall asleep just yet. Between skiing in the sunshine, the first hikes of the season, and nature coming to life, this is the perfect time for those who like to take their time. It’s a special time of year —more peaceful and intimate— when you can explore the mountains away from the hustle and bustle of peak season. Want to come along?
Skiing in the Sun
Spring skiing
Good news for winter sports enthusiasts: in Châtel, winter is in extra time. Thanks to the many snow cannons, skiing fun is guaranteed from mid-December through the end of April. Spring skiing has its own special charm: plenty of sunshine, snow that softens in the afternoon, sunny terraces, and a relaxed atmosphere.
With fewer crowds than in the middle of winter, you can enjoy the Portes du Soleil slopes in an almost private atmosphere. No more lines at the lifts, more space on the slopes: it’s the perfect time to ski at your own pace, string together runs in the morning, and savor a long break on a terrace in the afternoon, basking in the sun.
Great Deals You Won't Want to Miss
Affordable rates for smart vacations
Spring is also the season for great deals. As the warmer weather arrives, rental rates become very attractive—often much more so than in January—and many discounts apply to package deals starting in late March. It’s a great way to treat yourself to a mountain getaway without breaking the bank, all while enjoying an exceptional setting.
This is the perfect opportunity for savvy vacationers: you get the same breathtaking scenery and the same thrill of hitting the slopes, but at a much more affordable price. It’s a great way to extend the winter fun or treat yourself to a spontaneous getaway without breaking the bank.
The trails are clearing up
The first hikes of the season
As the snow recedes, the trails become accessible and invite you to go for a walk. The trails wind through forests and alpine meadows adorned with multicolored flowers, offering walks filled with the scents of spring. Among the must-see hikes is the ascent to the Pointe du Morclan, a former smuggling route, which offers a series of 360-degree views; on a clear day, the panorama from the ridges takes in the entire Mont Blanc massif all the way to the major Swiss peaks.
This is a particularly pleasant time of year for hiking: the temperatures remain cool, the light is beautiful, and nature—still untouched by the summer crowds—reveals its first treasures. Every outing holds its own share of discoveries, from streams swollen by the spring thaw to meadows turning green again.
Nature Awakens
The fauna and flora of the Alps
In the spring, the mountains come to life. The Mont-de-Grange Reserve, a protected area home to chamois, mouflon, and marmots, offers the chance to spot alpine wildlife—with a little luck and a lot of patience.
Marmots are emerging from hibernation, the first flowers are blanketing the alpine meadows, and nature is reclaiming its place in a soothing spectacle.
Watching nature come to life is one of the greatest joys of the season: you just need to know where to look and take your time. A word of advice: stay on the trails and keep your four-legged friends on a leash to preserve this beautiful balance, which is still fragile at this time of year.
A Family Outing
Lake Vonnes and its walking trails
Located in the heart of the village, Lake Vonnes is the perfect setting for a relaxing family outing. At an elevation of 1,300 meters, it features a magnificent water jet that shoots up 40 meters—the tallest water jet in France! Fishing is allowed during the season, and there’s a playground that delights children.
There is even a themed trail connecting Lake Vonnes to Lake Morgins in Switzerland, lined with informational signs about water and the environment. It’s an ideal outing for families: accessible, fun, and educational, it lets you enjoy the great outdoors without too much effort, while sparking the curiosity of the youngest visitors.
The village, seen differently
Discover Châtel at your own pace
Spring is also a great time for a leisurely exploration of local heritage. The free “IONO Expression Nomade” app offers a “Discover Châtel” tour, where Chloé guides you through games and puzzles along the smugglers’ trail, starting from the Vieille Douane or following the Dranse River. You can also hop on the little train for a complete tour of the village.
It’s the perfect way to (re)discover Châtel at your own pace, combining a stroll with local culture. The village then reveals another, more peaceful side of itself, where you can take the time to wander, chat with the locals, and soak up the area’s history.
The Season of Renewal
Spring, at a human pace
Quieter and more intimate, spring perfectly embodies the spirit of slow tourism that we love at Savoya Lodges. It’s the ideal season to slow down, breathe deeply, savor a delicious local dish, and enjoy some time by the fire after a day spent outdoors. The mountains, quite simply, on a human scale.
Our chalets during the summer months
Savoya Lodges in the spring
Our four unique chalets also welcome you during the summer months, in a rare and peaceful natural setting, just 600 meters from the slopes.
We know which trails open first and the best spots for wildlife viewing, and we’d be happy to let you in on the secret. Plus, your pet stays for free!
Ready to enjoy spring?
All that's left to do is choose your dates
Whether you’re a sun-seeking skier or a fan of early-season hikes, the mountains are coming to life and welcoming you with open arms. Last runs in a T-shirt, trails opening up, lakes regaining their blue hue, peaceful outdoor seating areas: you can shape your spring however you like.
Tell us what you're interested in, and we'll give you the best recommendations and put you in touch with our partners.
Compare to make the right choice: |
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| Max Capacity | 21 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
| Patio | ||||
| Fully equipped kitchen | ||||
| Bedrooms | 8 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Bathroom | 4 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Separate restroom | 3 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Raclette/fondue set | ||||
| Jacuzzi | — | — | — | |
| Smart TV | ||||
| Xbox | — | — | — | |
| Number of parking spaces | 8 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Fireplace | — | — | — | |
| Coffee maker | Senseo | Nespresso | Nespresso | Nespresso |
| Crib + high chair | ||||
| Washing machine | — | — | — | |
| Dishwasher | ||||
| Beer tap | — | — | — | |
| Wi-Fi | ||||
| Heating | On the ground | Radiators | Radiators | Radiators |
| Meal Delivery | ||||
| Location on site | Lower section | Intermediate Level | Intermediate Level | Upper section |
| Short stay | ||||
| View this chalet | View this chalet | View this chalet | View this chalet |
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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!
