Do you need a treat this winter?
Perhaps you’re craving a bit of peace and quiet, somewhere unspoilt? Maybe you’re dreaming of fresh snow paired with chilled evenings gorging on delicious cuisine in an authentic Alpine setting?
Ahh, I thought so. This little pocket of charm and tranquillity east of Grenoble may be just the place for you…
Lap Up Its Authentic, Gallic Charm
If purpose-built ski-holiday factories aren’t your thing, and the thought of soulless concrete tower blocks, overly-commercialised high streets, and long queues to pick your way down on artificial snow makes you shudder, then we reckon you’ll love this tranquil farming village.
Vaujany prides itself on its rural charm that hasn’t been shaken since the early 80s, before the cowsheds became chalets and tractors were exchanged for piste-bashers…
You Get The Best Of Both Worlds
What’s so fab about Vaujany is the contrast between the rural village and the high-tech ski area.
Our guests love that they can enjoy the perks of a big resort, without the…well…not so great bits. Facilities in the village are of a standard normally associated with a large resort, such as an indoor international sized ice skating rink.
Think dreamy evenings strolling around a quiet village, welcomed by friendly locals and immersing yourself in a true Alpine experience. Forget the gaggles of school children or drunken stag parties carousing until the early hours – instead relish a decent night’s sleep. Wake up fresh faced and full of energy in the morning, ready for an exerting day on the slopes.
But there’s got to be a catch, right? These small-resort benefits usually come hand in hand with a limited ski area, but that’s where Vaujany is different.
Linked into an extensive ski area which it shares with Alpe d’Huez, we’re certain that there’s no chance the skiing will get boring here…
There’s Plenty Of Terrain To Explore
Simply hop on the Vaujany cable-car in the early morning and find yourself in the magnificent Massif des Grandes Rousses area, with nearly 250km of pistes to get stuck into, as well as miles of challenging off-piste.
Located in a sun-drenched bowl, this is the fifth largest ski area in France, with 84 lifts and lots of ground to cover.
There’s Skiing For All Standards
The ski area is so vast ( check out this piste map) that it can be tricky to know where’s best to delve into. Whether you’re into racing down heart-in-your-mouth type pistes, pushing yourself through killer moguls, or cruising down quiet slopes, this place is certain to offer something that hits the spot.
We’re guessing you’re an experienced skier, or at least a fearless intermediate, in which case the famous 16k Sarenne black (the longest black run in the Alps) should keep you occupied. Also be sure to check out the rest of the huge Massif des Grandes Rousses area.
If you’re looking for something gentler, either for yourself or perhaps you’ve brought your family along, Montfrais (above Vaujany) offers some gorgeous runs, as well as a quiet nursery slope for any little ones.
There’s Lots To Do In The Evening (If You’ve Got The Energy)
Sure, you’ve opted for a resort where the nightlife is almost non-existent. But there’s plenty of après-ski activities to keep you occupied in the village. If you’re not exhausted from the extensive skiing, there’s an indoor ice-hockey stadium, bowling alley, sports hall and gym that hosts events throughout the season. Also there’s the brilliant indoor-swimming pool and aqua-bike hire (you’ve got to try it once) at the leisure centre plus spa facilities if you fancy a bit of pampering!
The Food Is Delicious On The Mountain
Foodies, listen up. We reckon an important part of the ski holiday experience is the food.
You’re on holiday, after all, so treat yourself by gorging on some delicious local dishes at some of our favourite eateries in the Alps. There’s no better way to recuperate after a long morning than warming yourself in a cosy mountain restaurant. Or perhaps it’s a glorious day and you fancy basking on a sunny terrace? We recommend the following (and we definitely know our stuff):
Les Airelles
Try: The Buffalo Burger. It’s going to be a push getting back on the slopes with such a full stomach, but gosh is it worth it.
La Pierce Neige
Try: Tartiflette. An Alpine speciality that you simply can’t miss out on.
The Chalet du Lac Besson
Try: Brochettes du Boeuf. Soft, juicy and delicately seasoned. You’re in for a treat!
La Foret de Maronne
Try: Plat du jour. Always a surprise – trust the chef as it’s guaranteed to be yummy.
La Fruitiere
Try: Spaghetti Carbonara every time. Creamy and delicious – you can’t go wrong with this one.
And In The Village Too
La Remise
Try: Pizza or Fondue. Rich and filling as mountain food should be, but the tastiest in the area.
Table de La Fare
Try: Raclette. Fall into a blissful food coma with this Alpine speciality. Be sure not to stuff yourself at lunch beforehand!
Stief’s Bar and Resto
Try: The burgers. They come in all shapes and sizes with lots of interesting flavours.
Le S’Tou
Try: Charcuterie. Enjoy a platter of tasty salted, smoked and cured meats. Mmm.
Right that’s enough about food for now - we apologise if we got you drooling at your desk/laptop… On to the next point…
The Kids Are Taken Care Of
Maybe it’s a low-key, romantic winter break you’re after – no kids allowed? Sounds pretty idyllic if it’s relaxation you need.
But if you do want to bring your family, there’s no better place for childcare. The crèche is for children up to 11 years old – your little ones can enjoy playing in the kindergarten whilst the tweens can mix in skiing with other activities.
It’s pretty flexible and the staff are happy to fit in around your kid’s requirements.
There’s also a fantastic local ski school with friendly instructors who speak good English to make the learning process a little less overwhelming, as well as after-skiing fun to be had at the leisure centre (think slides and paddling pool).
There are plenty of gentle slopes for children to built up their skiing confidence on. The resort’s compact nature also makes everything easier for little legs wobbling in ski boots.
Ready to Go?
So, have we got your attention? Doesn’t sound too bad does it?
If the idea of Vaujany has tickled your fancy then don’t hesitate to get in touch!
We like to think we’re pretty clued up on the whole ski-holiday thing, so we’ll be happy to answer any queries you may have, or give you further information on why the resort might be the perfect destination for your party (or not – we may be slightly biased but we like to stick to our ethos of honest, impartial advice).
Go ahead and sign up for our email course with its weekly chunks of information to hold your hand through the planning process. Or check out our contact page for all the details you could possibly need for getting hold of us.
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