Category: Winter

Of course the main reason to come to Praz-sur-Arly, Megève in Winter is to ski or snowboard. But there is so much more to do, even when the weather is not ideal. Try ice-sking, luge ride, dog sledding, riding down the mountain on a Yooner….

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Do you Yooner?

When you’re on the pistes of Megève and Praz-sur-Arly you’re sure to see folk sliding down nearly on their bums – sitting on a tiny seat perched on one short ski. That’s a Yooner – give it a try.

Someone’s always inventing new ways to slide down a mountain. Snowboards gained in popularity until someone came up with the carving ski for more control and fun. They’re still popular of course, but when was the last time you saw someone on Big Foot – two very short skis, no poles? And is anyone still telemarking?

The Yooner, invented in France, is the latest and seems to be popular in the region. You take it up on the ski lift but in regular snow boots – not ski boots. They can be rented at most ski shops in town. Praz-sur-Arly even hosts a Yooner Championship every year.

It looks pretty easy but here’s a handy guide:

 

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Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Take a look out the windows in the master bedroom window on a clear sunny morning, say around 9am, and chances are you’ll see 2 or 3 hot air-balloons rising majestically into the air. Why not take a ride in one!

Mongolfiers, as they are known in France (after the frenchman who apparently invented them), are launched from Praz-sur-Arly, just by the Aire de Jeux – 10 mins walk from the apartment.

We’ve never taken one – I’m afraid of heights – but it looks like an amazing experience.

Go here to enquire about a booking.

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Day Trip to Annecy

Glamorous friend Sarah on one of her regular pilgrimages to Annecy

Of all the destinations in easy reach, Annecy must be one of the most charming. This historic town on the edge of stunning Lake Annecy, has so much to offer and is just an hour and half drive away. 

Whether in the Summer or a sunny Spring day, taking a break from the skiing, Annecy town is great for strolling. Take in it’s beautiful buildings, shops and buzzy restaurants and cafés. The market is on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

In the Summer there’s so much to do by – or on – the lake, including boat hire and watersports. Check out the agenda here: https://en.lac-annecy.com/activities/agenda.html

Directions from the apartment to Annecy

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High Speed thrills on the Luge Ride

For something exhilarating but not on the snow try the Luge ride in Megève – at any time of the year.

Just beyond the sports centre in Megeve, in the Balltrap (ouch) area at the bottom of the Jaillet ski lift, is the Luge ride. Top up a Megève lift card with ride tokens and get in the queue for a car. Get hauled to the top of the hill then take off! Speed is in your control, push forward on the handle to go faster.

The more tokens you buy the cheaper it is. Also, each token is for one car, so two sharing will make your money go further. And sharing the experience is even more fun. Little ones can ride with an adult.

There’s another one – possibly even bigger – in Les Saisies: see here

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Trip to Chamonix

Whether it’s to shop and eat in a stunning setting, ascend to the glacier or enjoy unrivalled skiing, Chamonix – the best know ski resort in the Mont Blanc Valley – is within easy reach.

In truth you could ski in Megève and the Espace Diamant 100 times and not see it all or get bored. But if you want something a bit more challenging, with altitude that guarantees great conditions throughout a long season, then a day trip to Chamonix is recommended.

Snow-sports aside, all the famous Chamonix – in the town and at it’s peaks – has to offer is worth a visit all year round.

The drive is typically around 45 mins through beautiful scenes.

Directions to Chamonix