Chatel, Portes du Soleil

Another of the many resorts loosely linked in the 650km of the Portes du Soleil, Chatel remains an essentially French resort. Its recent growth, mostly organic and unplanned, has allowed it to blossom into a major tourist hub. Chatel provides a lovely starting point for skiing circuit seeing Morzine, Avoriaz, Abondance and Champery. There is a selection of fine hotels, with some situated a fair way from the lifts. Chatel also offers enjoyable restaurants, but nightlife as a whole is fairly quiet. Ski school and childcare are excellent, making families very welcome.

Overall, Chatel is a wonderfully traditional resort. The quiet nature of the place is ideal for families and those seeking relief from the rowdier après-ski crowds. There are some excellent intermediate runs and the superb ski tuition will soon have you whizzing down the more advanced slopes.