We just love winter holidays in the Alps here at Peak Retreats, there is nothing more magical than getting to spend Christmas in the mountains! That's why we have put together this blog, giving you some inspiration on where to visit this Christmas and what to do. With mulled wine, special torchlit descents, a chance to meet Santa, festive markets and of course fireworks you can make this year's Christmas even more special with the family...
Le Grand Bornand
Situated in the Aravis mountains of the French Alps, le Grand Bornand is a firm family favourite for a winter holiday. The traditional village setting offers a relaxed atmosphere with the benefit of access to great skiing in up to 210km of piste.
This season the resort has gone all out for some special celebrations around Christmas! From 4pm on Christmas eve (Tuesday 24th December) there are a number of activities organised for the evening to keep the whole family entertained.
There will be an Alpine merry-go-round (a pretty carousel ride with iconic animals found in the mountains), a torchlit descent for the French ski school pupils and their instructors, a Christmas parade, a visit from Santa, and complimentary mulled wine and hot chocolate!
Christmas torchlit descent with Santa
White Shadows Christmas angels parade
These celebrations in Le Grand Bornand are made even more special by the Gospel Angel's concert at 5pm on Christmas Eve, bringing together sounds of blues, folk and country music for some fantastic live music entertainment. At 5:15pm the White Shadows will make an appearance, the illuminated angel characters will light up the streets of the resort.
On Christmas day, children can meet Santa and have a photo with the man himself as a souvenir! Later in the evening, there will be live DJ entertainment to enjoy whilst skating on the ice rink.
Samoëns
The charming village of Samoëns in the Grand Massif area of the Alps is another picture-perfect destination to spend time with the family over Christmas. The resort has a tranquil family-friendly feel, with a pretty village centre. Despite its lower resort level, skiers climb to 1600m to explore the 265km of varied piste in the ski area.
With a beautiful market square in the centre of the resort, Samoëns is definitely an ideal destination for capturing the magic of Christmas. This year Samoëns is organising 'Le Village de Noël', which includes a traditionally festive Christmas market offering a number of local produce and handmade gifts as well as drinks and tasty treats. Families will be well looked after, as there will be a number of activities and entertainment for the children to get involved with. More information to follow soon...
Enjoy a traditional Christmas market during your ski holiday in Samoëns
Les Gets
This traditional French resort in the Portes du Soleil is packed with character, and is easily accessed from Geneva. Les Gets has a lively atmosphere and is an excellent choice for mixed ability groups and non-skiers. Take advantage of up to 600km of slopes, with many tree-lined runs offering fabulous scenery!
Les Gets is lucky enough to be the home of Santa this winter! In the lead up to Christmas Santa will be staying in the enchanted forest with his elves, they will be offering storytelling visits, workshops with the elves, special shows, village fêtes and fairs, as well as the Christmas market!
This year the elves will be surprising those staying in Les Gets by visiting the village on the mornings of 23rd and 24th of December, so be on the lookout!
Also organised in the resort over the holidays are some additional celebrations to get involved with. On Christmas Eve there is a special torchlit descent accompanied by Santa from 5:30pm, along with some amazing fireworks to celebrate!