press pack - Massif des Aravis

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La Clusaz,
just a stone’s
throw away
Only 50 minutes from Geneva international airport,
30 minutes from Annecy and 180 kilometres from
Lyon, a chance to get away from it all at your
fingertips...
Paris
Vers Paris
Genève
Vers Paris
Annecy
Lyon
Vers Marseille
A43
La Clusaz
Content
P4&5......................... A treasure trove of expertise
P6......Tradition and modernity: the magic formula
P7....................A little bit more beautiful every day
P8&9.........................................Tailor-made skiing
P10.......................A host of other ways to have fun
P11........................... La Clusaz at the cutting edge
P12 ......................................Intoxicating La Clusaz
P13 .................................................. Save the date!
P14 .....................La Clusaz pampers your littl’uns
P15 ................................................. Happy families
P16......................................... The resort in figures
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A world
to share
Nestled at the foot of the Aravis mountain
range, La Clusaz extends its guests the
warmest of welcomes. Its unspoilt natural
setting lets you journey through the worlds of
winter sports, festivities, gastronomy, local
expertise and heritage… Like all good things, La
Clusaz’s many treasures are best discovered as
you go along, happening upon a joy here and a
wonderful surprise there: perhaps when you’re
rounding a bend on the slopes, sipping on an
aperitif, returning home from an excellent meal
out, or enjoying a natural spa treatment made
from mountain plants.
Lake Annecy
Ski Resorts
The resorts of La Clusaz, Le Grand
Bornand, Manigod and Saint-Jean de
Sixt come together in an international
communication
and
marketing
strategy. This new brand will showcase
to the world the diversity of the area
and the resorts many complimentary
strengths. Its close proximity to
Lake Annecy makes for the perfect
destination at any time of year. Four
seasons for you.
To offer you the very best of La Clusaz, the
village’s traditional character has been
maintained, whilst one eye has been kept firmly
trained on its future. Sustained by its natural
environment’s abundant riches, welcome to a
world apart.
www.laclusaz.com
A treasure trove
of expertise
« Often at nightfall, you’d see Jean de la
Mine go off into the mountains. That’s
where he found gold – a lot of gold –
it was said... » remembers Historian
Fernand Thévenet.
Born without a silver spoon in its mouth, La Clusaz wove
its own fate from golden thread, creating a charming
cocoon. Over the years, the resort has become a rich
breeding ground for extraordinary talent.
3 years ago, the resort was made a member of
the highly select « Top of the French Alps » group.
This international label has been awarded to the
17 finest French resorts in the Alps, all of which
offer high-performance ski areas alongside
quality services to their ever-more-demanding
clienteles.
A touch of soul...
La Clusaz owes its fabulous fortune to the exceptional
men and women dotted throughout its history. Let’s
put the spotlight on some of the strong, varied, local
characters who all share a common goal: the pursuit of
excellence.
Mad as a (chef’s)
hatter about
gastro-cuisine
Christophe Pachéco,
Chef of
« Le 5 » restaurant
It didn’t even take one season for Chef
Christophe Pachéco to impress the most difficult-toplease foodies with his inventive, modern cuisine.
Playing confidently around the theme of local, organic
produce, Pachéco was named Meilleur Ouvrier de
France 2011 in the gastro-cuisine category. He took
the helm of the « Le 5 » restaurant, part of the 5 star
« Au Cœur du Village » Spa Hotel when it opened
in December 2010, with an impressive track record
already behind him, having worked alongside major
Michelin-starred chefs such as Joël Robuchon.
For « Le 5 », Pachéco has designed a gastronomic menu
built around the great taste of tradition. His suckling
lamb in a potato and truffle crust, and his blue lobster
and lemongrass tagliatelle with broccoli semolina sent
everyone’s taste buds into a spin last winter. From this
November onwards, he’ll be offering a new menu, and
hopes to be rewarded very soon by his first Michelin
rosette. Watch this space...
A chocolate genius
Jean-Dominique Gellé,
Master chocolatier at Chez Morand
Since taking on the Chez Morand chocolaterie (established in the 1960s)
in 1986, Jean-Dominique Gellé from Poitou definitely hasn’t lost his
touch. Thanks to his expert work as a master chocolatier, La Clusaz’s
renowned chocolaterie has surpassed its limits. You could certainly say
that this gourmet artisan collects « tablettes », having won a number
from the « Croqueurs de Chocolat », the equivalent of the Michelin
guide for the chocolate world. He hasn’t only held the maximum
4 ‘tablettes’ for 12 years, but is also the recipient of 6 Awards from
the Salon du Chocolat in Paris, notably for his creation « Le Spiré »,
« a chocolate ganache, flavoured with meadowsweet then covered
in a layer of liquorice almond paste » a great example of his fertile
mind which never runs short of ideas. Amongst his specialities are
« Le Quito », made with very strong Ecuadorian chocolate, as well as
« Le Chevrotin » and « Les Campanes », two creations introduced by his
predecessor. Incredible delicacies to get your mouth watering!
04 - 05
The taste of excellence
Marie-Louise Donzel,
farmer and president of the Union of Farmhouse Reblochon
Cheese Producers
An enduring extremist
Sébastien Michaud,
Godfather of freeride
« A good rider is a living rider », that’s the adage
that Seb Michaud has made his own. At 38 years
of age, he has never stopped pushing the limits
of freestyle and freeskiing and knows how
to manage the risks better than anyone. His
amazing backflip jumps off rocky outcrops have
made him a living legend. Famed throughout
the world Freeride circuit, as well as the owner
of a collection of titles – Winner of the Red
Bull Snowthrill 97 in Chamonix, of the Xtreme
de Verbier 05, Vice World Champion in 08 -, he
holds the record for longevity. When does he
plan to give up the competitions and retire?
« Around the age of 65 I think, I don’t know any
more?!! » that’s the hilarious response from
the man concerned who continues to sweep
the World Cup Podiums! Get yourself here
next January during the La Clusaz Radikal
Mountain to see this phenomenon in action on
his favourite playground and, until then, watch
his webisodes online « Un jour, une ligne »
(« One day, one route »).
Marie-Louise is without a doubt an inspiration to women
everywhere. Naturally warm, cheerful and motivated, she spends
her working life in the pursuit of excellence. Since the age of
12, she’s worked with determination for the star of our Alpine
pastures: Farmhous Reblochon cheese. President of the Union
of Farmhouse Reblochon Cheese Producers, vice-president
of the Departmental Chamber of Agriculture and former town
councillor, she has dedicated her career to getting to the top of
this gastronomic inheritance.
The Thônes Valley District Community (TVDC) and its figurehead,
Marie-Louise Donzel, became involved in a large-scale project to
make the region a Centre of Rural Excellence (CRE). Built around
farming and its traditions, this label is proof of the high quality
of the region’s major producers, regional produce and local
expertise. Restaurateurs, food retailers and farmers are all part
of this commitment, the goal of which is to « offer, through our
products, a little bit of our history » says Marie-Louise.
Cross-Country Crazy
Vincent Vittoz, V for victory
Vincent Vittoz has thrilled his country by taking French cross-country skiing to its greatest heights. He’s our
ambassador on the international circuit, and one of La Clusaz’s 9 home-grown world champions.
« I first slid around on the snow at the age of 4 with my brother and sister on the Champ Bleu ski tow. But neither being a fan of speed or queuing
for the chair lift, I chose cross-country skiing, a sport where I immediately felt free. I learnt my discipline on the Confins plateau. The fact that World
Cups were being run on the site was an added extra! » confides the champion who has remained modest despite having an impressive track
record which speaks for itself: 1 World Champion title, 8 individual World Cup wins and a relay team win in La Clusaz in 2004 – a high point in
his career – 36 French Champion titles, 4 Olympic selections and 2 World rollerski Champion titles.
After 16 years spent in the French Team, Vincent has just retired from competition at the age of 36. He will, however, continue to make his
mark by training the French Team’s group of hopeful under-23s: « I wanted to pass on my experience to young people and hope that France
stays competitive in the years to come ». With a trainer like him, we’ve absolutely no doubt it will!
www.laclusaz.com
T radition and
modernity: the
magic formula
Spotlight on the 5 star
« Au Cœur du Village » Hotel & Spa
Creating the resort’s very first 5 star hotel was no mean
feat. This exceptional destination’s doorstep skiing
location right at the heart of the village is a luxury all by
itself! This prestigious establishment opened its doors
in December 2010 and oozes with elegance, as well
as the welcoming warmth of natural wood. Blending
harmoniously into the village, the hotel boasts fifty
suites, each tastefully decorated with a pleasing combination of the contemporary and the authentic. Each suite
features a balcony, lounge area, balneotherapy bathroom
and jet shower. There’s even an English drawing room
for cigar lovers. The hushed, exclusive, chic atmosphere of the fireplace lounge is perfect for a cosy
conversation around the fire. The Cristal Spa (also
open to non-guests) provides a unique opportunity to
recharge your batteries. Finally,
all of Annecy is flocking to enjoy
a gastronomic meal at the « Le
5 » restaurant, which has already
achieved cult status in the region.
Roots, heritage and one eye trained on
the future…
At the beginning of the last century, La Clusaz
transformed itself into a renowned ski resort and
brilliantly combined its rich traditions with an alwaysmoving need for modernity. This is what doubtless
seduced the 2,000 people who live year-round in the
village.
Ahead of its time, the resort has always anticipated
the latest trends and offered its guests the very best
experiences available. Its accommodation is multifacetted, much like the resort itself. Bit by bit, it has
extended throughout La Clusaz, from the heart of the
village to the very top, and has adapted to provide a
wide range of comfort and facilities. From 5* hotel to
charming guest houses, prestigious chalets to tourist
residences, furnished rentals to youth hostels, the
choice of accommodation is sure to satisfy everyone
and blends perfectly into the surrounding landscape.
Contact:
[email protected]
+33 (0) 4 50 01 50 01
06 - 07
Initiative
« Jour de Spa »
Bruno Beauvoir’s « Jour de Spa », unites
well-being with an unforgettable experience. The Balinese
décor sourced from Indonesia meets the Savoyard summits
and invests the whole area with a gentle sense of « letting
go ». Comprising a series of two person cabins, one for mud,
plant, and seaweed baths, a huge body-scrub and body-wrap
room with two magnificent oval tables, and finally, a private
steam bath for 6-8 people, this institute has transformed
itself into a haven of peace. Customer feedback has been
unanimous in recommending the « Bali Holiday » ritual, a
1hr 40 minute ode to relaxation (130 euros). Afterwards, why
not round things off beautifully by sampling a sensational
organic tea?
Contact:
[email protected]
+33 (0) 4 50 64 86 15
Transformation
Hotel Christiana and
« Le Bistro » brasserie
Right in the centre of the resort, just a stone’s throw from
the ski lifts, the two star Hotel Christiana has undergone
such extensive improvements, it’s unrecognisable. Last
winter, the hotel underwent a life-saving transformation,
was clad in light-coloured wood and had its ground floor
transformed into a trendy brasserie, « Le Bistro ». This
refined, fashionable mountain atmosphere became the place
to warm up with a glass of mulled wine, lunch or a meal at
any time of day. It’s also the only place in La Clusaz with a
seafood platter on its menu. Its sunny terrace and booths
covered in animal hides are an invitation to sit back and
relax. The new outdoor bar, live acoustic pop concerts,
DJ sets, themed nights and the arrival of Giovanni are
going to get things started!
Contact:
[email protected]
+33 (0)4 50 02 64 37
Creation « Les Grandes Alpes »
four star residence
in the process of being classified
The attractive Les Grandes Alpes adorns the entrance to
the resort. At the top, the establishment enjoys full southern
exposure and faces the Aiguille massif’s ski runs. Boasting
impressive views over the village, the Aravis and Beauregard
mountain chains, Les Grandes Alpes offers a magnificent
range of 44 apartments from 32 to 100m2. The residence
includes a well-being area of over 200m2 with a swimming
pool, Jacuzzi, and sauna, as well as offering its guests a
wide selection of luxury à la carte services.
Contact:
[email protected]
+33 (0)4 50 02 59 10
Eco-cocoon
Le Vieux Madrier
A one-hundred-year-old former Alpine farm, the Le Vieux Madrier
gîte de France is sure to last a few more centuries after its new ecorenovation. A gentle project that worked with the farm’s high altitude
location (1,500 metres): a balcony over the listed, protected site of
the Les Confins cross-country skiing area.
Martine and Jacques Agnellet will delight you with local, seasonal
products made from organic farming: dandelion and fir jam at
breakfast time and evening meals of Savoyard delicacies finished off
with organic tea made from mountain plants. A great programme for a
journey out of time at a very reasonable price!
Contact:
[email protected]
+33 (0)4 50 02 66 45
www.laclusaz.com
Tailor-made skiing
The thousand and one facets of La Clusaz almost risk
eclipsing the resort’s main reason for being:
skiing!
A breeding ground for major champions in a range of disciplines since the 1960s,
La Clusaz is France’s most starred resort with 9 world champions, not including
the freestylers who collected points at the X Games and the budding youngsters
from the freestyle section which swept the French Cup podiums. Everyone
attests to the high quality of the ski area which lets them train and maintain
their skills at the best possible level.
Ski area ready
reckoner
The perfect measurements
Altitude 1,000 metres- 2,600 metres
5 massifs,
12,044 metres of total vertical descent,
220 kilometres of runs,
54 ski lifts,
7 black, 24 red, 30 blue, 23 green,
1 snowpark (modules and rails) and 1 superpipe,
1 boardercross (fun zone),
80 kilometres of cross-country ski runs,
P1-day ski pass 31,50 euros,
190 snow cannons,
56,090 people per hour /
hourly passenger rate.
08 - 09
Top
snowcover
With an average of 4 metres of snow
accumulated each winter and an extended
opening from the end of November to the
beginning of May, we don’t lack for white gold
in La Clusaz even during those winters other
resorts call “snowless”, because our ski
area is one of the last to close. Its proximity
to the great lakes – Annecy, Léman and
Bourget – and location at the north of the
Alps guarantee quality snow cover, optimised
by 190 snow cannons. In addition to that, the
expert work of the slope team, who work
meticulously through the night, allows us
to offer impeccable runs from 9am every
morning.
A varied ski area
The 5 very well-served massifs connected to La Clusaz by doorstep
skiing routes offer a huge variety. The ski area’s 220 kilometres of
runs extends out for miles around, suitable for all abilities, ages and
disciplines. Each massif has its own special personality and
exposure which follow daily passage of the sun. Fun, gentle, steep,
tricky, uneven, groomed, spacious Alpine pastures, snaking through
the forest, high mountain atmosphere... a landscape as eclectic as
the people who glide over it, there’s truly something for all
snowsports lovers. The ski area’s natural environment offers splendid
views over a range of balconies: reach out and touch Mont Blanc from
Balme or l’Etale, and enjoy 360° panoramic views from Beauregard...
Another benefit of its size is that you need never take more than three
lifts to reach the summits and get to the longest downhill runs, that is
to say, 1,600 metres of vertical drop in one descent.
5 massifs,
so many possibilities,
5 times more enjoyment.
• The sun-bathed Aiguille massif offers long, wide,
smooth slopes for carvers, as well as beginners’ runs,
including the fun mauve run which snakes through the
forest. In addition to the famous Edgar wall, there’s
also the snowpark and superpipe to get some big
freestyle air.
• The Beauregard massif boasts a range of beautiful
curves. At the summit, its largely sunny plateau is the
ideal place for beginners and families, as well as being
home to cross-country skiing trails.
• The Etale massif offers breaks in the slopes which lend
themselves perfectly to cross-country skiing. The area
isn’t officially recognised by the FIS and called Régine
Cavagnoud for nothing. Great opportunities for off-piste
skiing, but shhh!...
• The Manigod massif’s gentle landscape is ideal for
families.
• The Balme massif, beloved of backcountry enthusiasts,
is quite simply a natural giant slopestyle with a series
of domes, wind lips, step ups and hips. Facing north, it’s
the resort’s snow reservoir.
High altitude area
for hiking and freerando
Names which have
gone down in skiing
history
Guy Périllat in the 1950s,
Régine Cavagnoud - Alpine skiing,
Edgar Grospiron and
Raphaëlle Monod - mogul skiing,
Sébastien Michaud - freeride,
Alexis Blanc - ski jumping,
Alain Pessey - telemark skiing,
Cathy Breyton - KL,
André Maszewski, Jonathan Collomb-Patton
and Morgane Fleury - snowboarding,
Candide Thovex, Lolo Favre,
Loïc Collomb-Patton, Anaïs Carradeux
Vincent Vittoz - cross-country skiing.
In La Clusaz, you’ll find a mass of freerandonners equipped with fat skis and airbag backpacks, attracted by a
mid-mountain area with a varied range of accessible offpiste routes just 20 minutes away by foot, such as the
legendary Bellachat valley. The Aravis mountain range
is an Eldorado for uncompromising hikers who leave at
dawn to reach the summits.
Warning: Never set off without a mountain guide.
Contact:
La Clusaz Mountain Guides Office
+33 (0) 4 50 63 35 99
[email protected]
Cross-country skiing
to the max
As well-being as a marvellous downhill skiing area, La
Clusaz is a Mecca for cross-country skiers: it enjoys the
largest cross-country ski area in the Haute-Savoie region
with 80 kilometres of trails on the Confins and Beauregard plateaux. This premier approved site is equipped
with a Cross-Country Skiing stadium – a series of moguls
and hollows, springboards, and a range of obstacles to
tackle – as well as a biathlon laser zone. The Les Confins
plateau is the area’s most frequented site and has hosted
5 cross-country skiing world cups.
« What have we got that others haven’t? Excellent
snow cover in a super setting at the foot of the Aravis
mountain range, as well as unparalleled quality trail
grooming and a very warm welcome » says Vincent Vittoz,
cross-country skiing world champion.
So skiing’s not your cup of tea. Not to
worry because in winter, La Clusaz has a
range of other ways to enjoy yourself on
offer.
Snowshoe hikes, become a trapper for a day and get towed
along by a dog-sled team, horse-drawn carriage rides,
biathlon laser rifle shooting, speedriding, a bracing swim in
an outdoor pool, ice-skating, yoga… There’s a whole range
of activities so you can enjoy the benefits of the open air or
spoil yourself and recharge your batteries in the gentle heat
of the spa. Our selection…
Dive into a huge pool
in the heart of winter!
On the mountainside, the Aqua Centre overlooks
the village and offers impressive views over the
snow-covered massifs from the swimming pool
and the fitness studio. Swimming in the steam of a pool heated
to 29°C opposite the ski slopes when it’s 0°C outside is a one-off
bracing experience. The more daring amongst you can have a roll
in the snow before diving into the pool or enjoying the Jacuzzi. As
well as its beautiful outdoor swimming pool, the Aqua Centre also
includes a covered swimming pool with a paddling pool, a waterfall,
as well as a fitness area with a sauna, steam room and fitness studio.
Entry to the swimming pool: 8 euros for adults, free for the under
5 euros.
Ski Joëring,
a different type
of snowsport
Ski joëring or horse-drawn skiing
is a natural, traditional practice
which originated in Scandinavia
BCE. It experienced a resurgence
after several generations and
was relaunched in La Clusaz by Aravis
Passion.
On short skis, hold on to the rigid bar
which keeps your body out of reach
of the powerful horse and set off for
an hour and a half hour introductory
session, a ride or 3 half-day training
courses.
www.aravis-passion.com
10 - 11
It’s an artform in itself
Childhood is an artform in itself at the Atelier des
Belettes. Sigrid, the owner, has a big heart, and ideas
to spare, so decided to share them with young and old
alike. With her colleague Emilie, Sigrid offers a range of
workshops to awaken the talent of budding artists. Don’t
start thinking it’s all about pasta necklaces or painting
yoghurt pots, everything done here is modern and on
trend: workshops to customise a blanket, home decoration
workshops to make lovely paintings, jewellery-making,
painting on china and even the new Artoy workshop led by Stéphan. There’s
something for every taste and every age.
A place to exchange ideas, buy and exhibit, the Atelier des Belettes, is also
a design and jewellery boutique for young creators.
Contact:
+33 (0) 6 60 06 43 20
www.atelier-des-belettes.fr
La Clusaz
at the cutting edge
New
Enter into the 3rd dimension, play
and win ski passes
On your keyboards, type www.skipasslaclusaz.com
into your browser, install the plugin and you’re all set
for a mad 3D race down La Clusaz’s slopes. Avoid the
obstacles, pass through the haphazardly-arranged
poles, speed up and slow down, the difficulty will
increase depending on the massif. At the finish line,
there are two one-day ski passes and goodies to be
won per person every week for the first two winners
with a third selected at random. The timer is set back
to zero each week and a general prize draw takes place
at the end of the season where you can win a holiday.
Quick, bookmark this page!
www.skipasslaclusaz.com
High-tech
La Clusaz in your pocket
with the iPhone application
Launched in 2010, the La Clusaz iPhone application
provides a range of services: weather reports and
snow cover, interactive piste maps with opening and
closing times, real-time resort info, events diary,
purchasing and recharging your ski pass...
The question is, how did you ever do without it?
Be first
on the slopes
with operation
« First tracks »
Delicate senses
The Cristal Spa
La Clusaz’s well-being facilities are some of the very best around,
with three notable luxury spas: the Authentic Lodge, Jour de Spa
(cf. page 9) and the Cristal Spa in the ‘Au Cœur du Village’ hotel. This
sumptuous oasis of peace and relaxation offers a unique chance to
recharge your batteries in its fun swimming pool where you can
swim against the current and enjoy relaxing massage jets and bubble
beds, or sink back in the beautiful rock crystal steam room and sauna or have a Cinq Mondes body and facial treatment, carried out by a
team of beauticians and masseuses in one of the five treatment rooms
boasted by this temple of well-being.
www.hotel-aucoeurduvillage.fr
Powder snow lovers know that being
the first to glide over freshly fallen snow leaves its
mark, and not just in the snow! Skiing at the break of
day on a virgin run after a heavy snowfall is a unique
experience that everybody should have at least once
in their lives. La Satelc ski lift sompany knows this
all too well, so opens the Balme ski area from 7am if
the conditions are exceptional. Standby and keep an
eye on the webcams!
Dining at the summit
No stay in the mountains is complete without
a traditional slopeside meal in an enchanting
setting:
La Clusaz’s
surrounding area
. Au Bercail, in this magnificent hundred-year-old
farm perched on the slopes of the Crêt du Merle,
Boris will picked you up on a snowscooter and
serve you some delicious local dishes including
magnificent cuts of meat cooked over a wood
fire. The assortment of desserts is as attractive
and generous as everything else, and Véronique,
the hostess, loves serving a drop of Génépi, the
local tipple, to her guests!
Gourmet restaurants, cosy lounge atmospheres, tapas and aperitifs, an English pub,
live concerts, DJ sets getting the dance floor
moving… the party never stops in La Clusaz.
. Evenings in the Télémark Café on the Etale
massif have become cult events: there’s simply
no limit for the Rolland brothers who’ll extend
you the warmest of welcomes. Have a quick dip
in the hot tub on the terrace, there’s nothing like
it for livening up an evening!
Exciting evenings that are longer than the days are perfect for
night owls looking for crazy, high octane nights out. The village’s
buzzing establishments have made it a haunt for hedonists.
A great après-ski night out on the town!
Sunglasses
for sleepless nights
Crazy days...
There’s no need to take your skis off to warm up at the Chalet
des Praz; here the party atmosphere starts at midday, straight
off the slopes on the sun-bathed terrace where DJ after DJ
provide a soundtrack for Lounge afternoons or aperitif mixes
while you sample plates of tapas and Savoyard dishes.
www.chaletdespraz.com
...and nights
At sunset, the dazzling red/orange twilight which perfectly
outlines the contours of the Aravis mountain range means
only one thing: it’s aperitif time! All you have to do is
choose from a huge range of different atmospheres:
- Live concerts and singers get the evening going at
Bachal and Aux Caves du Paccaly in the cosy, hushed
atmosphere of a traditional chalet
- At the Le Salto Pub the Anglo-Saxon atmosphere
can be felt loud and clear!
- La Braise is a local haunt for a fab night out.
Night owls need not panic, magical evenings await you:
at the legendary Ecluse, and at Club 18, La Clusaz’s two
nightclubs, every evening brings another great mix.
Palaces of the senses
La Clusaz’s restaurants are irresistible for those
who love the finer things in life.
. « Le 5 », the gastronomic restaurant at the 5 star « Au Cœur du
Village » hotel has really taken off and its Chef Christophe Pachéco
has carved out an excellent reputation for himself in less than a
season. See page 5.
www.hotel-aucoeurduvillage.fr/fr/restaurant-le-5
. La Scierie (The Sawmill) has been fully booked since it was opened in
1999 by François Pollet-Thiollier – the great grandson of the creator
of La Clusaz’s genuine sawmill in 1910 - and his wife Fabienne. With
its trendy décor and quality, varied menu, it’s the fashionable place
to be seen, and keeps serving up until 11.30pm.
www.la-scierie.com
Special mention
The Nuits Blanches de la Scierie where the high society of the
old area gather. VIP only, entry by invitation and white dress
code.
The great sound of the Get-Up Festival organised by Radio
Meuh, the unmissable local webradio show which crosses our
borders (idea for an article).
The Priscillia at Le Salto Pub: themed around the film
« Priscillia, Queen of the Desert », platform shoes, outrageous
make-up, skin-tight dresses and sequins are the obligatory
costume for both girls and boys!
Full-Moon which lights up the slopeside and village restaurants
on nights when there’s a full moon (See events diary page).
. Give in to the charm of the four star Vieux Chale’s cosy décor,
perfect for hunkering down for the evening, as well as its semigastronomic cuisine and exceptional wines. This hundred year old
farm was renovated in 2007 on the slopes, just 10 minutes away
from the village centre. Why not pull out all the stops and spend the
night on the slopes in one of its 5 top-of-the-range bedrooms or in
this little intimate hotel’s smart suite?
www.levieuxchalet.fr
. On Les Confins plateau, stands Chalet du Lac, a renovated traditional
lakeside farm. Proprietor Titou knows exactly how to welcome his
guests: with Savoie sausages, coq au vin, and other home-made
regional specialities that will get your mouth watering. As you’d
expect, that’s all followed by an assortment of gourmet desserts
and coffees!
+33 (0)4 50 02 53 26
12 - 13
Save the date
14th « Pestacles du Père-Noël »
From the 22nd to the 31st of December
2011
La Clusaz Radikal Mountain
January 14th and 15th
Full Moon
February 4th
French Snowboard Championship
From the 5th to the 8th of April
Spotlight on
La Clusaz Radikal
Mountain Regular event!
Yesterday Freestyle skiing World Cups, today a Freeride
World Tour for women and a World Qualifier for men...
Past master of organising international competitions,
La Clusaz’s expertise has traced the development of
snowsports and arrived at one place: freeriding, a sport
whose elite participants are coming to the resort on
the 14 th and 15th of January. Amongst the many seeded
competitors, one we can rely on being there is a certain
Sébastien Michaud. Having come 2nd in the 2011 event,
our ambassador is playing on his home turf; « Second
isn’t bad for an old guy (Michaud was born in 1973) but I’m going for
first place this year! » he told us.
www.laclusaz.com
Défi Foly 25th year
April 28th and 29th
The FWQ take place over 2 days, preceded this
year by an Open competition. 150 riders each
have one run to prove themselves to the six
judges based at the bottom of the slope. The
competitors are marked on their choice of route,
fluidity, speed, and jumps. The top 50 qualify for
the final which takes place on a different, more
demanding slope.
The 3 days of the race are punctuated by a nighttime freestyle demonstration on the champ
Giguet, transformed into a giant slopestyle and
featuring experts in the discipline.
www.laclusaz-radikal.com
What is the « Family
Plus Mountain » label?:
6 commitments
La Clusaz
pampers
your littl’uns
La Clusaz keeps families at the forefront of its mind,
giving children, parents and guardians preferential
treatment.
It didn’t receive the « Family Plus Mountain » label for nothing. This
independent national label, the only one to be recognised by the Minister for
Tourism, requires a series of very strict specifications. To be awarded the
label, the resort under evaluation must meet strict criteria and provide the
necessary infrastructures and facilities so parents are guaranteed to find a
holiday destination which suits their needs and expectations, as well as those
of their children.
14 - 15
1. Welcome tailored to families.
≥Example: Aqua Centre
2. Entertainment adapted for all ages.
≥Example: ‘Pestacles du Père Noël’
3. A price to suit everyone: from the youngest to
the oldest
≥ Example: Reduced rate ski passes for children
4. Activities for all ages, to enjoy together or separately
≥Example: Ice rink
5. All businesses and services should be within easy
reach
≥Example: La Clusaz is a mountain village so
everything is in one location.
6. Children are to be pampered by qualified
professionals
≥Childcare centres, ski schools...
The art and method
of learning to ski
The Club des Piou Pious takes care of young
children between the ages of 3 and 5, giving
them a gentle introduction to their first
skiing experience. It all takes place on the
Champ Giguet at the heart of the resort in a
secured area for Alpine skiing or on Les
Confins for cross-country skiing.
Contact:
+33 (0)4 50 02 40 83
www.esf-laclusaz.com
For mini-shredders who are already
getting big air and pre-teens, the Aravis
Challenge school has developed the
« Lou Riders » freeski course which works
wonders. Youngsters learn about the risks
of the mountain and the use of A.R.V.A
(avalanche victim search equipment) in a fun
way. This year, the school is going that bit
further and running a freeride competition
open to all budding freeskiers...
Contact: Aravis Challenge
+33 (0)4 50 02 81 29
www.aravis-challenge.com
Pirouettes in the ice
kindergarten
Great prices for young
children’s ski passes
If the under 5s ski for free, then the under 8s enjoy a reduced
rate with the Bambin ski pass. A welcome deduction from
the cost of your holiday and a massive relief for parents!
5-7 day ski pass from 89.00 euros to 105.50 euros
Contact:
+33 (0)4 50 02 45 64
www.skipasslaclusaz.com/
Happy
families!
Once upon a time, there
was a resort where
children didn’t need video
games to be entertained.
But how was this
possible?
The secret is that the mountains are
much more fun than a « Gameboy »,
and that children can take part in a
huge range of activities that they can
enjoy with their family!
While their parents are
skiing…kids are having
their own fun too
If parents want to have a little bit of time
to themselves, they can be completely
confident about entrusting their off-spring
to the Club des Champions for young
children between the ages of 3 and 6,
and to the Club des Mouflets for babies
from the age of 8 months and children up
to the age of 4. The Club des Champions
welcomes up to 40 toddlers a week, and
offers them a great range of activities
including an introduction to skiing in the
ski kindergarten.
Club des Champions / Club des Mouflets:
+33 (0)4 50 02 48 91
www.club-laclusaz.com
www.laclusaz.com
In the ice kindergarten, young children can
skate off in complete safety without a care
in the world. The 1000m2 outdoor ice rink is
adapted to suit the needs of children with
specific opening hours just for kids, and
special equipment which helps them learn in
a fun, safe environment.
Contact:
+33 (0) 4 50 02 48 45
www.patinoirelaclusaz.free.fr
The magic of Christmas:
« Pestacles du Père Noël »
For the last 14 years, Christmas week is
host to the « Pestacles du Père Noël »; a
unique, free-of-charge street arts festival
that delights children and awakens the child
inside all of us. An intense week of street
art shows, circus and sculpting workshops,
storytelling from Mother Christmas,
provided by twenty street art companies
who’ve come from around the world. The
whole place is inspired by the magic of
Christmas and that jolly fat man in red who
makes your eyes sparkle. Little children
from 6 months to 6 years can wrap up warm
and come and enjoy a range of shows and
events dedicated especially
to them, in the morning
and end of the afternoon.
Enjoy!
Contact:
+33 (0) 4 50 32 65 00
www.laclusaz.com
The resort in figures
Access
Village
By car
Altitude.................................................................1,100 metres
Number of inhabitants...................................................... 1996
Businesses.......................................................................... 168
Sports shops......................................................................... 27
Restaurants........................................................................... 68
Bars / brasseries / pubs....................................................... 13
Nightclubs............................................................................... 2
Hotels.................................................................................... 23
Sports shops......................................................................... 28
Bed and Breakfasts................................................................. 5
Gîtes de France..................................................................... 25
Holiday Gîtes........................................................................... 3
Youth hostels........................................................................... 1
Tourist residences................................................................... 4
Holiday centres for families.................................................... 1
Campsites................................................................................ 1
Alpine skiing
Altitude.................................................up to 2,600 meters
Skiable area......................................................... 400 hectares
Ski runs......................................................................... 220 km
Massifs.................................................................................... 5
Ski runs (7 black, 24 red, 30 blue, 23 green)........................ 84
Ski lifts (1 télémix lift, 1 gondola lift, 4 cable cars,
14 chair lifts, 34 drag lifts, 3 ski tows).................................. 54
Snow cannons..................................................................... 190
Ski schools ............................................................................. 7
Slopeside restaurants (accessible on skis)........................... 13
A 40 (“ Autoroute Blanche ”)
take exit N° 16 “ Bonneville ”,
then follow ‘Stations des Aravis’ for 20 kilometres.
A 41
take the “ Annecy Nord ” exit, then follow
“ Thônes / Stations des Aravis ” for 30 kilometres.
By plane
ANNECY AIRPORT (32 kms)
Tel.: + 33 (0)4 50 27 30 06
www.annecy.aeroport.fr
Regular shuttle bus links between Annecy Airport,
the TGV railway station and La Clusaz.
GENEVA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (50 kms)
Tel.: +41 900 57 15 00
www.gva.ch
Regular shuttle bus links between Geneva and La Clusaz.
LYON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (150 kms)
Tel.: + 33 (0) 820 320 368
altibus centrecontacts.com
www.altibus.com
Regular shuttle bus links between Saint Exupéry and La Clusaz.
By train
Annecy Train Station (32 kilometres)
Tel.:+ 33 (0)8 92 35 35 35
www.sncf.com
TGV high-speed train connections from most major towns
and cities.
Cross-country skiing
Plateaux
(Beauregard 1,600 metres, les Confins 1,450 metres)............ 2
Trails.................................................................. 80 kilometres
Loops..................................................................................... 13
Skating (1 specially prepared trail at Les Confins).................. 1
Connections
(1 x 7 kilometre black slope linking to Le Grand-Bornand).... 1
Ski kindergarten...................................................................... 1
Cross-country ski school........................................................ 1
Walks
Pedestrian circuits (3 circuits in Les Confins,
totalling 15 kilometres, and 3 circuits in Beauregard,
totalling 20 kilometres)..................................... 35 kilometres
Childcare centres (Club des Mouflets, from 8 months to
4 years; Club des Champions, from 3-6 years inclusive)........ 2
La Clusaz has been awarded the « Family Plus » label.
Activities and leisures
Aqua centre............................................................................. 1
Ice rink.................................................................................... 1
Toboggan runs (Confins and Champ Giguet)........................... 2
Snowmobile circuit (in the Villards sur Thônes district)........... 1
Quad bike training................................................................... 1
Fitness centres........................................................................ 4
Paragliding schools................................................................ 2
Bridge club.............................................................................. 1
Cinema.................................................................................... 1
Library..................................................................................... 1
Museum (La Maison du ski).................................................... 1
Mountain Guides’ Office.......................................................... 1
La Clusaz Tour Central booking
www.laclusaz-tour.com
Tel.: +33(0)4.50.32.38.33
Tourist Office
161, place de l’Église - B.P. 07
France - 74220 La Clusaz
Tel. +33 (0)4 50 32 65 00
[email protected] - www.laclusaz.com
Press Contact
Tel.: +33 (0)4.50.32.65.02 - +33 (0)6.71.87.01.86
[email protected]
Media: http//:mediatheque.aravis.com
Photo credits: .S. Chappaz / G. Dieu / P. Lebeau /
J. Pastore de Vardo / F. Cavazzana / Sima .Arnal / L. Di Orio
Encres végétales sur papier 100 % recylé
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