Ski Trips In Nendaz - Chalet Spotlights
For many of our Members, the onset of the winter chill turns their thoughts to the mountainside. The ski season is upon us, and as the next few months offer winter sport experiences for our Club Members - and for travellers all over the globe - we're taking a look at one of our favourite ski destinations: Nendaz, in Switzerland.
Members of our Classic Collection have access to a total of 4 luxury chalets in Nendaz, each with its own charm and authentic alpine character, and each the perfect setting for a winter holiday. The first coatings of powder have already fallen, so here's a spotlight on our chalets in Nendaz, and why the region is such a fantastic ski trip destination.
Nendaz
Nestled among the Four Valleys ski region, and above the Rhône Valley in Switzerland, Nendaz remains a hugely popular and endlessly enviable ski destination. Nendaz itself is in fact an agricultural municipality in the canton of Valais; it's the resort of Haute-Nendaz that's the destination for holidaymakers and skiers.
With a rich history dating back to the Roman occupation of the Rhône over 2000 years ago, and with ties to the British, German and French (whose soldiers used the alpine resort as a centre for medical attention in World War 1), Nendaz has become a popular choice for skiing.
Offering visitors a slightly more secluded experience, the resort also features some of the best off-piste slopes in Europe. With plenty of exceptional and authentic cuisine, and attractions for those who don't ski (or simply want a break from the slopes), a getaway in Nendaz is hard to beat.
The slopes
Inevitably, the biggest appeal of Nendaz is the terrain. For those with a passion for the pistes, the skiing offered by the resort is truly exceptional; the wide variety of runs, altitudes, and easily accessible courses mean Nendaz has something to offer every skier.
Nendaz is renowned for its ability to hold snow exceptionally well, even down at lower altitudes, which makes it a great destination when the weather may be against you - or for those travelling in a family or mixed ability group.
There is a selection of wide, motorway style North-facing runs like the Tracouet area, which also offers a sun-trap kids' area on a frozen lake - perfect for taking a break from the slopes, or for beginners to practice their skiing. Nendaz also has plenty of more challenging areas to choose from, such as the Mont Fort glacier - home to one of the handful of genuine black runs in the area.
This, along with some excellent and lengthy itinerary runs and plenty of off-piste options make Nendaz an enviable mountainside to ski. Throw in the added bonus of things like their famous full moon skiing parties, and Nendaz is a clear choice for winter sports fans.
For detailed information on the slopes themselves, take a look at their interactive ski map; and for information on the snow conditions, see their opening information and snow report (or have a browse through our list of the best ski apps in 2017)
Food and drink
Regardless of the activities you take part in, skiing or otherwise, no holiday is complete without the accompaniment of exceptional food and drink. While our Members can of course call upon their own private in-house chef or use the excellent and extensive kitchen facilities in their chalets, Nendaz is also home to some outstanding restaurants and cafes.
If you're seeking humble, fresh local produce, expertly prepared and served amongst refined contemporary chalet decor, then look no further than Le Mont-Rouge. For a taste of some of the best French fine dining, and one of the best meat and fish menus in the area, Le Grenier is an excellent choice. To sample some traditional specialities from Valais, the alpine-style La Cabane is ideal (and their 3-cheese fondue has a reputation all its own). If you're travelling with children, Les Etagnes is a good, family friendly option for a simple, delicious bite.
When dinner is over and the day is done, Nendaz is also home to an assortment of fantastic bars and clubs for a drink or dance. For wine lovers, Le Verre d'Ici offers a curated selection of over 130 Swiss wines, or for something a little more lively, NYX is open until 3am every night, with a great and varied selection of music.
Other attractions
Skiing might be the main attraction at Nendaz, but for those who prefer not to ski, there are still all kinds of unique experiences to be had. Nendaz is a great location for all kinds of outdoor pursuits.
With 40km of snowshoe tracks easily accessible from our chalets, there are fewer better places to try your hand at an authentic alpine walk. There's also a sledding run, an outdoor ice rink, a fitness centre, climbing wall, and squash courts - not to mention the excellent golf course at Sion.
For those looking for a more relaxing break there are also plenty of calmer things to see during your stay. For a little piece of history, you could spend an afternoon exploring Chateau de Tourbillon: a hillside 13th century castle, and a Swiss heritage site of national significance.
For some family fun there's the nearby labyrinth; or for something a little more peaceful and tranquil, you can spend some time at the beautiful Japanese garden. Those looking to really indulge in some relaxation can enjoy a treatment (or three) at the Spa des Bisses in the Hotel Nendaz 4 Vallès, which offers a serene chance to unwind in alpine luxury - and Hideaways Club Members enjoy a 10% discount.
The Chalets
While the Four Valleys and surrounding areas are worth a visit in their own right, arguably the greatest appeal of a Member's holiday to Nendaz is the chance to enjoy a stay in one of our four stunning alpine chalets. All of the chalets offer ample room, and easy ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes - making them the perfect destination for a ski break.
The four chalets themselves are Chalet Lune, Chalet Etoile, Chalet Gingembre and Chalet Renard.
Chalet Etoile
Located in the charming little hamlet of Les Cléves, situated just above Haute Nendaz itself, Chalet Etoile ('Chalet Star' in French) lives up to its cosmic namesake. Its four bedrooms can easily and comfortably accommodate 9 guests, and like the other Hideaways Chalets in Nendaz, it offers a seamless blend of the traditional and the modern.
With an alpine styling that's homely and inviting, Chalet Etoile provides great access to more than 250km of marked footpaths, and over 200km of bike itineraries, making it the perfect place for an 'outdoors' experience even during the peak of summer.
Chalet Lune
Chalet Lune is Chalet Etoile's twin lodge, and is also located in Les Cléves. With four large and welcoming bedrooms, along with a hot tub in which to unwind after a long day on the slopes, you won't be short of comfort during your stay at Chalet Lune (Chalet Moon).
With furnishings and a finish that all adhere to the natural, bucolic appeal of the alpine style, panoramic views down over the valley, and direct access to the Tracouet Gondola via a quick blue run, Chalet Lune bears all the hallmarks of the very best in Swiss luxury.
Chalet Gingembre
Offering visitors a chance to unwind with a contemporary take on the traditional chalet style, Chalet Gingembre (Chalet Ginger) comes complete with all the conveniences of the finest modern luxury, including an in-house chef, and even a sauna.
With stunning views of the mountain itself, and a rustic interior ambience, there are few better places to stay for an immersive alpine experience. Exposed wood beams, chocolate-coloured striped cushions, wicker baskets, and balancing neutral sofas all come together to provide a luxurious home away from home.
Chalet Renard
As the sibling of or other chalets, Chalet Renard ('Chalet Fox') offers all the appeal of the other chalets in our portfolio - with the added bonus of an extra bedroom. The chalet also boasts exceptional views over the whole of the Sion valley.
Taupe throws, cowhide pillows and rugs, and bold and sturdy wooden installations all provide a natural charm. There's also a large balcony offering plenty of room for all guests to relax in comfort, and perhaps to enjoy a mug of hot cocoa (or something a little stronger) after a long day's skiing, there are few better places to stay for the true Nendaz experience.
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