The mountainous region known as Les Portes Du Soliel straddles the border between France and Switzerland, south of Lake Geneva near famous Mount Blanc. It has been lauded as one of the world’s most extensive skiing areas. Here, you will find a dozen ski resorts, fifty peaks, nine snow parks, 206 ski lifts and 700 kilometers of prepared trails, ready with powder, moguls and pistes for all levels of ability.
A rustic alpine village known as Val D’Illiez sits on the Swiss side of the ski territory at a height of 950 meters above sea level. Its central location relative to the best slopes makes it the perfect base for your outdoor excursions.
You must have a car with snow chains as well as skis if you want to get around here in winter. Otherwise, you can ride the local shuttle buses that serve the region.
A short drive to the resort of Champoussin will put you in position to tackle the majestic Dents du Midi range and the Crosets Snowpark. At 1,600 meters, you can feel how thin the air is – and fresh, too. The ski lifts operate from Christmas through Easter, when the snow is perfect.
If snowboarding is your sport, you will appreciate the special extras added to the area. There are tables, boxes and walls to challenge you. A big air super pipe, raised bends, rails and freestyle airbags will also test your abilities.
Rather than a standard hotel room, you will be staying in a studio apartment-type unit within a free-standing chalet. Your unit will have pull-downs and sofa beds, so it can accommodate a group of 4~6 persons.
Expect a full kitchen, cable television, and panoramic views in any direction you look. Common facilities include a heated pool and sauna, a restaurant serving Swiss specialties, a snack bar and grocery store.
One side trip that you will certainly want to make is to the wonderful thermal baths near Lavey and Bex. The natural hot springs are said to have curative powers, and it sure feels good to relax and soak in hot mineral water after a long day on the slopes.
If you would prefer to visit Les Portes Du Soliel in summer, there will still be plenty of activities to keep you occupied. More than 800 kilometers of hiking trails have been marked, and 24 lifts operate throughout the summer to take you to the heights. There is golf course in Aigle, just 20 minutes away. You can even visit a goat farm and see demonstrations of cheese making, with tastings afterwards.
Fishing, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, tennis and hot air ballooning are also available. And if you still miss the snow skiing, try grass boarding – the next best thing.
How much would you have to pay if you booked a week at Les Portes Du Soliel during peak season? It could cost thousands of dollars, if you make your reservation direct with the resort. You may be able to save 20~25% if you book in advance through Travelocity. But we think that is still too much.
As an exclusive offer for members of the Global Resort Network, you can enjoy seven days and nights of alpine splendor in a one-bedroom studio unit for just $645. That’s less than $16 per person per day for a party of six!
The motto inscribed on the sundial of the bell tower in Val D’Illiez reads “Carpe Diem.” Go ahead and take its advice: “Seize the Day.” Sign up for your GRN membership today.
