Picture-perfect tree-lined slopes
When you're embarking on a journey from the far reaches of the globe, smooth sailing is a must! Hailing from the land of the long white cloud, Aotearoa New Zealand, our family of four had just wrapped up an amazing Christmas with family in the UK. Eager for more adventures, we set our sights on Paris, followed by a thrilling stint in the snowy embrace of the French Alps for some epic skiing.
Recalling our previous Alpine escapade, where we hopped aboard the Eurostar from London to Bourg St Maurice and enjoyed the wonders of Val d'Isere, we knew another train ride into the Alps was a must.
Photo: Tim Strawbridge
Our quest for the perfect resort led us to seek the sage advice of Daniel from Snowcarbon, and before we knew it, we were captivated by the charms of Peisey-Vallandry. Picture-perfect tree-lined slopes reminiscent of our favourite spots in Canada, coupled with a charming village ambiance and an array of good accommodation options, won us over.
Photo: Tim Strawbridge
We settled on our own cozy chalet perched on the edge of the village, with sweeping views of the valley, expertly managed by the wonderful team at Alpine Essence.
Home from homePhoto: Tim Strawbridge
Opting for a touch of indulgence, we treated ourselves to first-class tickets aboard the TGV from Gare de Lyon. After spending over 50 hours cramped in economy seats during our travels, this little luxury was a welcome respite. The extra space allowed our tired teenagers to stretch out and enjoy some much-needed elbow room.
Our mornings in resort were a delight, waking up to the twinkling lights of neighbouring villages and the sun peeking over the majestic peaks.
Village lights at dawnPhoto: Tim Strawbridge
After a hearty breakfast, a leisurely 5-minute stroll brought us to the main Vallandry gondola – our version of the daily commute!
Vallandry gondolaPhoto: Tim Strawbridge
Over the next two weeks, we indulged in some fantastic skiing adventures, from sunny bluebird days exploring the vast Paradiski area, encompassing Les Arcs and La Plagne, to navigating the local tree-lined slopes of Peisey-Vallandry on greyer snow days for better visibility.
Highlights included conquering the epic Aiguille Rouge descent, from the heights of 3200 meters down to the quaint village of Villaroger at 1600 meters, savouring a sun-drenched lunch at L'Épicerie in Les Arcs, and finding windblown powder stashes off-piste - although the planned magazine-worthy photo of one of our daughters charging through a fresh cornice didn't quite turn out as planned!
Off-piste madnessPhoto: Tim Strawbridge
It was a short taxi ride down into the valley to the Landry train station, and then back to Paris for one more night and a final bistro meal before starting the long trek home to New Zealand.
Going home in stylePhoto: Tim Strawbridge