Ski chalets for couples
The traditional wooden alpine ski chalet is many couples’ idea of the perfect winter accommodation. Snow blanketing the roof, a cosy log fire roaring in the hearth, inviting sofas, and after dinner chat are all part of our winter dreams and (for some) memories.
For couples, the ski chalet can provide a good balance between the sociable aspects of a ski holiday and the desire to be on their own. Whereas hotels and chalet-hotels can feel slightly impersonal a chalet is far cosier. However, with much smaller numbers of guests there is still enough space for all.
Nobody would choose to cook for themselves on an active holiday, there are far better things for you both to do. You’ve spent all day in some of the world’s most breathtakingly gorgeous scenery, the last thing you should worry about is ‘have I brought enough potatoes, is the bread still fresh, is there enough wine’. What you want to do after beating that mountain is to sit in the winter sun, with a cup of tea (or something stronger), a plentiful supply of fresh cakes tantalisingly close to hand, and relax. The thought of a hot shower and a long dip in that invitingly steamy hot tub being the nearest thing to a pre-dinner plan.
Catered ski chalets tend to come in two varieties. There’s the haute cuisine variation, with premium meals, at a premium price. Or, there’s the good quality, nutritional, ‘home cooked’ option. With a whole resorts worth of Apres Ski entertainment from bars to night clubs, and late night shops to floodlit skiing, spending every evening in your chalet because you’ve paid for the 5 course cordon bleu cuisine may seem rather a waste!
Companies like Alpine Elements offer two variations of the couples catered ski chalet. Their Premium service chalets feature a Champagne reception, aperitifs & canapes, and 3 or 4 course evening meals, whilst still offering exceptional value. The other option includes three course evening meals of home cooked, nutritious food, much of which is sourced from the region. Both will allow you plenty of time to get ready and ‘hit the town’.
Most chalet operators allow their staff one night off a week, this gives the guests a chance to sample the local cuisine. For couples, it provides the opportunity to try that romantic restaurant they spotted one evening, or maybe a meal with new found friends.
The ski chalet holiday is an excellent option for active couples. Even if they are not at the same ability level, the mountain can be used as a meeting place, with lessons in the morning, a leisurely lunch at a mountain restaurant then a gentle run down the hill. Not up to the run down? Then just catch the lift back - or meet your partner at the bottom.
The combination of snow capped mountains, happy couples and ski chalets is an enduring image because, for many of us, it is our dream winter holiday.
For great ski chalet deals visit: alpineelements.co.uk
