At the beginning of the 20^th century, Chatel was a tranquil farming village, where the arrival of winter meant the evacuation of its inhabitants (mainly cows) to warmer climates. Fast forward 100 years and Chatel has become one of twelve ski resorts that form the incredibly popular Portes du Soleil.

Chatel’s strong farming identity and authentic mountain lifestyle remain at the centre of Chatel’s character as a ski resort. Many of the local families are still central to the industry, with 38 working farms and 800 Abondance cows which make the world famous Abondance cheese. And yet, in addition to its farming traditions, Chatel now boasts an extensive range of skiing, as well as fantastic bars and restaurants to satisfy its many visitors who return year on year.

The resort was transformed following the introduction of the Vonnes drag lift in 1947 and the subsequent arrival of the famous Rolan Macchi (father of future French skiing champion Francoise Macchi) who set up Chatel’s first ski school. Thus Chatel was put firmly on the winter tourist map. Now a major skiing attraction, Chatel has managed to retain its personality and charm through traditional Alpine chalets and mountain huts, surrounded by many towering pine trees.

As a result of Chatel’s position within Portes du Soleil, there is an enormous range of skiing on offer. Around 650km of piste is available, served by 198 lifts. Lying between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva, Chatel receives regular top-ups of snowfall, rather than one major dump at the start of the season followed by random sprinkling throughout the peak months. The lush high meadows and grass-covered slopes hold the snow extremely well, thus resulting in compact, fresh powder snow and great skiing conditions all through the winter until April. Furthermore, Chatel is an ideal place for those seeking a short getaway due to its swift 90 minute transfer from Geneva.

Chatel has invested heavily in the last 60 years and it now boasts an effective snow cannon system, as well as a dedicated piste bashing team who scan the depth of the snow on the piste. This ensures even coverage across the piste. Together with the already great snowfall, it is no wonder that professional and Olympic skiers have used the resort as a training facility.

The two main mountain ranges are the Super Chalet/Barbossine and the Linga/Pre la Joux areas. We recommend the PDS lift pass which covers the Swiss side around Champery and Les Crosets as this area is usually ignored by Chatel goers so is perfect if you like a quiet piste. Chatel is the highest village in the Abondance valley and is south facing, so expect to be skiing in the sun! There are many nursery slopes for beginners as well as super reds and challenging blacks for intermediate and advanced skiers.

When it comes to quality food in the village of Chatel, the choice is endless. Le Perrier, La Poya and Restaurant Antoine are the places to go for high quality, traditional French cuisine. There is also a wide selection of bars on offer, such as Le Fer Rouge and the Nazca wine bar, and if you want to watch the sport, look no further than Pub L’Avalanche, which unsurprisingly has a very English feel to it.

If you are a big family wishing to spend money on a luxury holiday or perhaps a couple celebrating a special occasion, we recommend Chatel as the perfect place for you. The picturesque landscape and varied range of skiing for different levels of ability make this destination a great choice for all ages and preferences.

Chatel is a hidden gem. Providing luxury skiing holidays, deep-rooted in agriculture and history, Chatel’s position in the Portes du Soleil provides both a range of skiing opportunities and beautiful scenery and architecture. The hardworking, proud attitude of the locals is reflected in the village’s culture and atmosphere and in the luxurious architectural heritage.

A Chatel luxury chalet option

If you are looking for one of these luxury chalets, look no further than Chalet Blanc. It is situated on the edge of a tiny enclave on the outskirts of Chatel, with beautiful views of the Abondance Valley; a peaceful backdrop to the outdoor hot tub and the perfect place to relax after a long day on the slopes.

‘Far enough from Chatel centre to enjoy uninterrupted views and true peace and tranquillity but close enough to get to any of the lift stations and the town centre in only a few minutes; Chalet Blanc offers our guests the best of both worlds.’ Michael Atkinson – Owner – Chalet Blanc

With five ensuite double bedrooms, Chalet Blanc sleeps up to fourteen guests. If you book the chalet exclusively for £9000, nine hours of complimentary ski tuition is included with a highly recommended private instructor. Breakfast is provided every morning and a delicious four course meal in the evenings, made by Chalet Blanc’s professional chef. The sauna and massage room provide a great therapy after a day’s skiing and can be supplemented by afternoon tea, coffee and cakes. Private transfers are offered to and from any of the five lift stations, meaning you don’t have to wait around for the bus or walk around in your ski boots. Transfers to and from Geneva airport are also included in the £900pp per week. Chalet Blanc can also arrange lift passes, equipment hire and ski school/private tuition.