Skiing in Chatel
Sarah Perkins on 30 Jan 2025
Having skied in Austria and Canada on previous winter holidays; 2025 saw me heading off to Chatel in the French Alps which is pretty alpine village with access to a huge ski area and is suitable for skiers of all standards.
Châtel sits at the heart of the Portes du Soleil, one of Europe’s largest ski areas—and it’s brilliantly inclusive, catering to every level of skier:
- Never Skied? Gentle nursery slopes and expert instructors make Châtel a welcoming place to take your very first turns, with ski schools offering fun lessons for all ages.
- Confident Intermediate? Wide blues and scenic reds weave through quiet forests and open meadows, linking picturesque villages across the border into Switzerland.
- Advanced & Adventurous? Tackle challenging black runs, thrilling off-piste, and famous “snow parks”—all with sweeping Alpine panoramas.
- Families & Mixed Groups: There’s a wide choice of slopes, child-friendly lifts, and dedicated areas for beginners, so everyone can enjoy their own pace and regroup for a hot chocolate in the village.
More Than Just the Slopes
Châtel is a lively village packed with Alpine traditions:
- Sample fondue and local specialities in bustling restaurants.
- Try snow-shoeing, ice skating, or winter hiking for alternative ways to explore.
- End each day with après-ski in cosy cafés or friendly bars, or unwind with a stroll among twinkling lights and charming shops.
