Thinking about a chalet? catered ski holidays await!

If you’re like many skiers, you might incline towards a holiday based around a picture perfect ski chalet. Catered options though, might strike you as being a little expensive and indulgent. The reality, however, can be quite different.

Your perfect ski holiday is within your reach

Let’s think about the realities. Unless you’re very wealthy, you've probably had plenty of opportunities to get involved in household chores in your daily life. However much you enjoy cooking and cleaning, though, on holiday it’s something you might prefer to get away from.

Then there’s the time on the slopes issue. A fairly significant percentage of the cost of a typical ski holiday revolves around getting you there in the first place, as well as the equipment hire, ski passes and so on. It therefore goes without saying you’re there to ski or engage in other snow sports – not spend a lot of time buying groceries in supermarkets or rushing back early to your accommodation to get a meal ready.

However, that statement inevitably also raises the question of cost. Surprisingly, holidays in a chalet, catered options included, don’t have to be expensive per head and they just might compare very favourably to food served in restaurants. Another added attraction is that you won’t have to bother with bookings or hanging around waiting for a table. Of course, if that’s how you enjoy spending your time, then fair enough!

It’s worth keeping in mind though that you can't assume all catered chalets are created equal. Some provide full services, including breakfast, afternoon tea and very high-quality evening multi-course meals. Others though may be a little more utilitarian in their services. There’s nothing wrong with either option. Some people prefer simple and basic, if filling, food to replace all those calories expended on the ski fields, whereas others prefer more of a gourmet edge. Just ask for details in advance to make sure you’re going to get a deal that suits your tastes.

It’s also perhaps important to be clear what type of cuisine is being laid on. For example, French Alpine cuisine is known all over the world for its very unique nature and ingredients. Rich in game and cheeses it would be a pity not to have at least some opportunities to experience it. International style food is fine but can become a bit tedious if it’s served up every night. So, don’t hesitate to ask questions.

It’s also worth checking out the position on alcohol. Some deals may include it whereas others won’t. Don’t be inhibited about asking for details in advance again as to what the (typical) wines served are. A wine inclusive deal that only offers some barely drinkable ‘vino collapso’ might not seem such a good choice once you’re there.

In practice, there are some excellent options for ski holidays in a chalet. Catered options exist with the very highest quality standards kept while also keeping one eye on value for money. It’s an option worth thinking about.

Danielle Hodges is the Marketing Manager for Ski Amis, a specialist ski travel agency and booking service offering bonded holidays staying in a chalet, catered or self-catering, in La Tania and other fantastic destinations. For a luxury or good-value skiing holiday and the best catered chalets call Ski Amis.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.