Travel: Ski The Snowy Heights

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Les Alpes du Sud: The Queyras and Guillestrois, located in the Alpes du Sud (05) make up an incredible playground for families. Lovers of open spaces can practice a multitude of sports activities. Holidaymakers who prefer the gentle approach will find in the mountain corners of paradise conducive to healing and perfect for oxygen. We like: the ideas ‘good plans’ offered on the website with stays from €120. www.queyras-montagne.com

In Switzerland: In Crans Montana nature lovers enjoy the sheer beauty of the landscape. From the first flakes, experience winter sports with 140 km of track, snowshoeing, many cross-country ski trails, a large ice rink and one of the most beautiful snowparks in Switzerland. Everything is there for you to surpass yourself. The resort is also a haven of peace. Lovers of wellbeing and shopping are invited to relax in one of the magnificent spas and indulge in beautiful luxury brands. For gourmets, some starred tables at ‘cabins’ offering traditional dishes will delight one and all. We love: the Etoile Bella Lui festival, which invites you to discover the magic of winter in the heart of Crans-Montana, animated by the Chemin des Lanternes, a craft market and a Ferris wheel. (From 6/12 to 5/01/2020). www.crans-montana.ch

Le Grand Massif: The Grand Massif, the fourth largest ski area in France, is located in the heart of Haute- Savoie between Geneva and Chamonix. It covers 40,000 hectares and connects five resorts: Flaine, Les Carroz d’Araches, Morillon, Samoëns and Sixt-Fer-à- Cheval. The five different and complementary entities allow visitors to benefit from 265 km of tracks and a breathtaking panorama of Mont Blanc. The village resort of Samoëns delights with its history and culture. The homeland of stonemasons, it has preserved its heritage – discover it through while strolling in its picturesque streets. The church of Samoëns, its botanical garden and the Place du Gros Tilleul, are particularly worth looking out for. tinyurl.com/y4jhk8gy

Samoëns is also about a wide range of activities. Apart from the joys of skiing, you can also discover the mountain… differently. I tested: The Afghan Walk, a wonderful relaxing experience in the heart of nature. Learn to synchronize your breathing with the pace of your steps and rediscover your internal emotions. It implores our senses to develop another perception of our environment. Considered as ‘active meditation’, this walk combines peace and relaxation. www.nature-quintessence.fr

Morillon, a village resort since 1958: This ski-in ski-out family resort seduces with its traditional charm, natural setting, skiing and many other unusual activities. Don’t miss the all-terrain Segcross, a single-seat electric vehicle consisting of a platform equipped with two parallel wheels. You remain standing, and speed and direction are generated by your movements. A great – but odd – experience! tinyurl.com/yyufpzfd

Another popular activity is the night snowshoeing, which also makes us appreciate the mountain differently: the tranquillity of the night, the splendour of the stars, the snap-crackle of the snow. This magical moment is rewarded when you make it back – by torchlight and laughs galore – with a delicious Savoyard fondue, comfortably settled in a genuine Mongolian Yurt. Festive atmosphere guaranteed. https://tinyurl.com/y3kxj8ob

Accommodation suggestion: the Hôtel Le Morillon offers comfort and conviviality. We appreciate its open fire, swimming pool and spa. Nestled in an enchanting environment, it offers a magnificent view of the snow- covered peaks. www.hotellemorillon.com

Member of the Grands Sites de France network, Sixt is located at the doors of the largest nature reserve of the region. Ideal destination for nature lovers, the site offers a cascade of activities (yoga, cross-country skiing, dog sledding). In the village, a nearby ski area is ideal for sliding sports in a family atmosphere and just 10 minutes from the Grand Massif area. Its breathtaking, 100% authentic and preserved surroundings make it an ideal destination. tinyurl.com/y4jzlesd

To sum up, The Grand Massif has a thousand other more nuggets for you to discover…