Mad Dog Ski: Ski Resort guidebooks for Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, France, Italy and Switzerland

Where to stay - Chatel - France

Although this is ultimately a French resort, packages from Britain are not hard to find. There are plenty of bigger tour operators who offer a multitude of apartments, chalets and hotel accommodation, as well as the usual in-resort run places.

Best for...


Modern:
Macchi is a modern chalet, and is the most centrally located of the 3-star chalets.

Food:
Although a simple chalet with rooms on the slightly small side, the Belalp has been recognised for its good food.

Peace and quiet:
If it's simply enjoying being in the mountains, without the distractions, Kandahar is a Logis by the river and a walkable distance from the centre.

Self-catered:
The best place to find self-catered chalets or apartments are usually through the tourist office. Try Inghams or Crystal.

All-rounder:
Rhododendrons has been recommended for its 'great service, friendliness, comfort and cleanliness'.

Accommodation


Chalets

For many, the beauty of catered chalet holidays is the food - breakfast, afternoon tea and a three course evening meal with free wine - and someone to cook it and wash up afterwards. You have the freedom of your own space rather than the more formal environment of a hotel which can be great if you are with a group of friends and can take over the whole chalet.

Hotels

Hotels tend to be the more luxurious option, often with welcome facilities such as steam rooms, swimming pools and on-site bars (although check out the luxury chalet operators too). They are often the best option for short breaks but at peak times even they may demand a minimum stay of one week.

Apartments

If you prefer to be your own boss then you should think about self-catered accommodation. You have to be fairly organised to shop and cook after a full day on the slopes and eating out every night can add up, although take-aways are an option, and you have the chance to check out some of the local restaurants too.