Chatel, CHâTEL

An old Savoyard village with a long farming tradition and today a strong tourism infrastructure, Châtel is well placed on the Portes du Soleil circuit, arguably the world's biggest lift-linked ski area offering 650km (406 miles) of piste. It differs from other Portes du Soleil resorts in a variety of ways. Firstly, the often busy road through it comes in from Switzerland, with the border post at one end of town; it's easy to reach the other French (and Swiss) Portes du Soleil resorts by ski, but not so easy by road. Secondly, the Portes du Soleil circuit is broken by the village, with a fast and frequent bus service making the connection across the village. This is actually quite good news for those based in the village, as they can decide which sector they wish to ski each morning. Thirdly, the village offers a high number of relatively inexpensive small family hotels and chalets rather than having the usual 99% apartment accommodation that is on offer in most French resorts. Finally, despite its meteoric rise leading to more rapid expansion than most other Portes du Soleil resorts (although arguably Morzine's expansion is Avoriaz...), Châtel has managed to maintain most of its development in chalet style buildings in keeping with the natural ambience of the resort. At the same time the farming tradition remains strong with farm fresh produce on sale direct from various local outlets. The resort's own radio station, radio Chatel on 98.8, keeps you informed as to what's going on from day to day in the village.ActivitiesSnowboarding: A snow park and halfpipe for snowboarding.Cross Country Profile: 21km of cross country terrain available at location. 7 XC circuits and 5 snowshoe circuits.LodgingSlopeside accomodations are available with a total of 1,800 beds. 29 additional hotels are located nearby.Winter RecreationActivities offered at Chatel or nearby are: cross country, snowshoeing, a sports center, swimming, an outdoor ice rink, bowling, sauna, solarium, a toboggan run, beauty farm, cinemas, night clubs, and paragliding.