Châtel sits in the middle of two ski regions. Behind is Super Châtel which links to the Swiss resorts of Morgins and Torgon, to the left is the Linga and Pre le Joux which link to the massive ski fields of Avoriaz, Morzine and the Portes du Soleil circuit.

With 650 kms (406 miles) of piste available, this is arguably the worlds biggest lift linked ski area. The resorts' proximity to Lac Leman means it benefits from the regular snow deposits as moisture from the lake precipitates out of the rising air hitting the mountains. This phenomenon endures late into spring allowing warm sunny days in the snow.

Snow for everyone
The ski area behind the town in Super Châtel has beautiful picturesque slopes through the trees and confidence building ski slopes. There is a board park and a time trial area for those who want to play and some lovely traditional mountain restaurants for those who prefer extended lunches in companionable surroundings.

Cross country skiing
The Abondance valley boast 50 kms of cross country ski routes along picturesque tracks by the river Drance and into the forest. There are a variety of difficulties to be attempted.

More intrepid skiers and boarders.
The more intrepid may choose to ski all day on different parts of the Portes Du Soleil circuit. Skiers can work out their own routes, but there are suggested circuits prepared locally and these are clearly marked. Each area has it’s own charm; wide open plains, tree lined tracks, link routes to alpine villages; it’s possible to not even cross your own tracks. There is a wide variety of pistes and different levels of difficulty. The World famous Swiss Wall is an attraction many are drawn to although not all chose to ski it!

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Off Piste
The resort offers enormous possibilities to ski/board off piste. With such a large area to choose from there is plenty of room to explore. It’s one of those places where you can keep making new discoveries for years. Ski guides are the best way to get to know the area quickly and safely and these can be contacted through the tourist office in the centre of town.

This area is one of Europe's top snowboarding destinations. Apart from the off piste attractions already mentioned and the extensive snow fields there is the famous ‘super park’ at Les Crossets featured in many snow sport magazines and a championship half pipe in Avoriaz .

Ski schools
There are several ski schools and private instructors in Châtel and Pre le Joux. Pre booking is advised at buy times. A complete list is available from the tourist board, but a selection of services are listed below.

ESF (Ecole du Ski Francais) provide ski and board lessons, private lessons and disability ski lessons , they can be contacted on info@esf-chatel.com.

Ecole de ski and Snowboard International advertise ski clinics in alpine skiing, boarding and mogul skiing.

Lift passes
Lift passes are available from kiosks adjacent to the lifts. They are credit card sized passes that go into a pocket and are scanned through the outer clothing

Equipment Hire
There are a variety of ski hire shops in the town. Vertical Horizons situated on Route des Freinets near the river bridge is run by an English team and supply both ski equipment and bike in the summer. They will offer discounted prices if you mention the referral from Chalet Papillon/ Lane family . Contact Vertical Horizons by e mail before you leave and they will reserve skis/boards/helmets and other equipment for you.

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