CHAMONIX: Fun in a winter wonderland

Dec 22 2007 By Nicola Boden, Liverpool Daily Post

I was more than happy to simply absorb the views of Mont Blanc and the Aiguille du Midi while skiing blue runs on Le Brevent and tackling the odd red.

But this is the home of the legendary 23km Vallee Blanche and Kandahar World Cup downhill runs, so there is plenty to keep even the most experien- ced skier interested. For guests at Chalet Philippes, where Champagne is at the ready and a chef can conjure up a six-course meal, there is little need to hit the town, aside from the slopes.

But, if you insist, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, and the chance of spotting Pierce Brosnan’s stunt double (who skied the amazing opening sequence in Bond film Die Another Day and is a regular in the valley) or maybe another fan of the resort, Arnold Schwarzenegger. But bumping into a celebrity could not make this holiday any more mem- orable. There’s always something awe-inspiring about a ski trip because of the purity of the snow and mountains, the freshness of the air, and the feel- good factor of swooshing down the slopes.

Chamonix, with Mont Blanc looking on, feels more authentic and lacking in pretension than the average ski resort. Combine its charms and character with the magical setting of Chalets Philippes, and you probably have the ski holiday of a lifetime.

NICOLA BODEN was a guest of Pollen-Brooks Leisure which operates seven-night B&B breaks in Chamonix from £300 per person in one bedroomed mazos (two sharing), larger chalets from £800, VIP service from £1,400, all prices for rental only.

The agency fixes an extensive range of skiing and associated pursuits on the slopes, and practically anything else you are likely to need in Chamonix. Reservations: 01344 849 135 or www.pollenbrooks.comChamonix is about an hour’s drive from Geneva, which has easyJet flights from Liverpool. Prices from £22.99 one way (incl taxes) and £35.98 return (incl taxes). Details on www.easyJet.com

Would you take the kids?

AS WELL as opportunities for children to learn to ski, Chamonix has plenty to offer a family holiday.

The under-12s can take part in pony rides at the Paradis des Praz (+33 4 50 54 04 76) and, during the summer, there is a toboggan ride at Les Planards leisure park (+33 4 50 53 08 97).

Restless teenagers can use up their excess energy with a few hours crag climbing in the nearby Les Gaillards.

Other fun-filled activities include the Greppon 460m karting circuit (+33 4 50 53 01 89) and crazy golf at Les Pelerins, 2 km outside Chamonix (+33 4 50 55 82 56).

Daily Post Travel

ENJOY an eight-day ski holiday staying in a luxury catered chalet in Portes du Soleil region, between France and Switzerland. Priced from £425 and available Christmas, 2007, to April, 2008, it includes seven nights’ accommodation in a king size/twin bedded en-suite room, private return transfers from Geneva airport (flights are not included), chauffeur driven return service to the slopes each day, breakfast, afternoon tea and cakes, and a four-course evening meal with wine. Further details from www.alpine- connection.com or email info@alpine.connection.com. QuoteLIV/ALP in all correspondence.