The snow is falling in Paradiski
With the first snow of the season falling in the French Alpes this week our minds are turning to ski holidays. And if you fancy trying somewhere different this winter, why not think about Paradiski?
The Paradiski region, created in 2003 with the installation of the Vanoise express cable car linking La Plagne and Les Arcs, is France’s latest super resort. The region boasts 425km of pistes and more than 160 lifts so the skiing is varied enough that there is something for everyone.
The thing that makes this resort something rather special though is the way that the accommodation is organised. Unlike most resorts with one of two centralised towns, La Plagne’s hotels, chalets and apartments are scattered among a selection of villages, each with its own unique feel.
Choose Plagne Bellecote for a high altitude, functional apartment, or Arc 1800 for nightlife. Travelling with children? There’s a club med in Aime 2000 with ski school on the doorstep. Or, if you are looking for a ski-in ski-out chocolate box chalet, look no further than Les Coches.
With the creation of the Vanoise Express lift, Les Coches, a previously sleep alpine resort has found itself re-located to the heart of one of the biggest ski areas in Europe. Amazingly though, apart from the creation of a new high speed ski lift, it has barely changed. Friendly, welcoming owner run chalets perch on the hillside above a pedestrian town centre. Pick up a baguette from the local bakery, stop for a drink in one of the many cafes, or try the traditional Tartiflette in one of the restaurants.
It’s unlikely to be long before the big tour operators realise its potential and move into Les Coches, so don’t leave it too long to visit.
Heather Morison is the Director of Ice and Fire, a boutique catered chalet company.
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My mind certainly isn’t turning to thinking of a ski holiday. I am continually thinking about snowboarding! ;)
Never rode in Paradiski, so I must put that right this coming season.
Do you consider Tartiflette to be luxury food? Am I correct in saying that it was invented as the poor man’s Raclette? It contains many cheap ingredients, though I must admit to enjoying it occasionally, though I couldn’t possibly eat it too often.
Dear John,
Good point about Tartiflete not being very luxury – although it is indeed very tasty!
We tend to find that guests like to try the local food on their night off but if you prefer something a bit more special there are a number of nicer restaurants in the region, and even a few michelin stars within striking distance. Maybe that’ll have to be the topic of another blog post . . .
Looking forward to seeing you in Paradiski, and happy boarding!
Heather
Hi
So this area is up and coming then? Is the area any good for beginners?
Hi Hannah,
The area is great for beginners. The world famous Evolution 2 ski school operates from Les Coches, and there are two dedicated beginners areas. As you improve, there are plenty of gentle blue pistes above the resort to give you loads of room to practise.
With best wishes,
Heather