Peaky blinder
Grab your fill of the French Alps in Avoriaz, a dream for first- time skiers and foodies, says Kate McMullin
Tucking into a cheese fondue, glass of wine in hand, and sitting inside a magnificent igloo, I thought there wasn’t a much better way to finish my ski short- break experience.
After a 10- minute night hike, in my snow boots and fashionable head- torch, I had made it to the wonderful and unique Village Igloo.
Inside a venue sculpted entirely from snow and ice, with a restaurant, bar and even overnight rooms, I sat with our beginners group of skiers reflecting on three fun- filled days on the slopes of Avoriaz.
At 1,800 metres up a mountain, the French resort is car- free, with horse- drawn sleighs transporting visitors and luggage to their accommodation.
After checking in to the four- star Pierre et Vacances, ski- in, ski- out self- catering Electra Apartments, we were introduced to Julien Tissot and Marine Garnier – our very patient and experienced ski instructors from Ecole du Ski Francais.
Before our trip with Inghams, we had been kitted out by Ellis Brigham in tailored- to- fit ski boots and goggles by SunGod, so the saying “all the gear, no idea” couldn’t have been more apt.
I had been skiing once before on a school trip, so to all intents and purposes I was a beginner.
Avoriaz is great for learners of all ages, with 25 blue beginner and four green intermediate slopes amid the 75km of pistes. I surprised myself at
ICE AND A SLICE Drinks at Village Igloo how quickly I picked up the basics again, and after only a few graceful falls I gained the confidence to be a bit more adventurous.
The chairlifts were an amazing, albeit nerve- racking experience, but they were the perfect way to take in incredible views and be transported to some of the best ski routes.
After a fun morning of slip- sliding our way across the blue and green slopes, our confidence was growing even more. Although the 14 red and six black pistes would have to wait as we were ready for refuelling over lunch.
The village has a variety of cafes, bars, patisseries and restaurants – all accessible by skiing – and a particular treat tucked away in the mountains is the charming, family- run Seraussaix Farm.
There was an irresistible array of cheeses, including Tomme and Abondance.
The hot chocolate made with milk from the farm’s cows was also recommended – however I opted for a red wine! In the heart of the village, La Cabane serves food along with live entertainment.
Its French onion soup with a side of crusty, cheese- toasted bread was a delicious winning combination.
L’Epicerie and Les Cretes de Zorre, on the mountaintop, tempted me with their stunning views as much as the food.
Impressively topped pizzas and huge stuffed calzones seemed to be the most popular choice at Les Cretes de Zorre.
However my favourite meal was braised beef cheeks in a wine sauce with bacon pasta at Le Refuge
d’Avoriaz – food surely doesn’t get much better than this.
After a couple of days on the pistes our group eased their aching muscles in the outdoor hot tub at Aquariaz ( entry € 11), a tropical- themed waterpark complete with lazy river and multiple pools.
I found another way to relax at nearby Altiform Fitness Centre, where I joined a morning yoga class taken by one of the trained instructors ( entry € 21).
But what about that all- important après- ski?
La Folie Douche was definitely the place to be. Known for its buzzing atmosphere, with live bands and backdrop dancers, it is handily placed just off the slopes so you can ski right up to the door.
In the great outdoors we were able to enjoy a drink while dancing along to the music, all against a perfect backdrop of the setting sun.
Yes, I certainly ate some snow as I made my return to the slopes, but I also enjoyed some terrific French food – and left feeling very fond- ue of all Avoriaz has to offer.
After a night hike, I made it to the bar sculpted from snow and ice