Summer in Chatel

The Alps are not just about skiing in winter, in summer the valley transforms and, along with spectacular scenery, the mountains bring a host of activities for everyone to enjoy, from complete relaxation to extreme activity.

The ski chalet accommodation featured on this web site is all available for summer holidays in Chatel, whether you are looking for a fully catered Mountain Biking or Walking holiday or a self catered holiday with a your family or group, or the flexibilty of bed & breakfast, we offer it all.

Many families and groups who visit Chatel in the summer like to combine as many things as possible, a week or two relaxing by the fantanstic pool, enjoying some mountain walks, water sports and sightseeing in the valley and around Lake Geneva, its a great way to spend your holiday. A large percentage of visitors to Chatel in the summer are now coming for just 1 thing - Mountain Biking!
 

Mountain Biking

Over the years the as the facilites and riding have continued to develop, the Portes du Soleil has become renowned as one of the prime locations for mountain bikers. Downhill, endurance, cross-country....all appreciate the experience and superb infrastructure which has made Chatel and the Portes du Soleil a MTB Mecca!

In Chatel we have possibly the best Downhill Bike Park in Europe. The Face Mountain Syle Course is used for Pro freestyle and downhill events and is also a venue on the IXS European calendar. If you prefer to venture further afield, you can enjoy the endless single track that connects each of the areas of the Portes du Soleil. Your chalet hosts will also be on hand to give you advice on where to ride and can also arrange for you to be accompanied on your journey. The area is stunning with a vast array of flora and fauna and some of the best views on the planet!

Bike Park Map

The summer ski lifts open everyday from the last weekend of June. The start of the Mountain Biking season is celebrated every year by one of the best mountain biking events in the World which is held right here in the Portes du Soleil. The Passportedusoleil VTT is an 85km ride around the whole area and is open to everyone. This is a massive event which bring thousands of riders to the area every year and is regarded as one of the best rides in Europe. Every year MBR magazine feature the event on holds it in the highest regard.

Chatel Mountain Biking Events 2010:

Passportesdusoleil VTT           26th & 27th June 2010           Host Venue - Chatel               www.passportesdulsoleil.com
IXS European Downhill             dates tbc                                                                                 
Face Mountain Style                 dates tbc 

The summer season comes to an end around the middle of September when the lifts close and we begin our preparations for the winter season. In addition to Mountain Biking, there are a whole host of other things to do whilst you are in this part of the Alps;

Water Sports

The river Dranse flows from high in the mountains right down to Lake Geneva. Rafts of up to 8 people battle with the forces of nature providing an exhilarating
ride down the rapids, or you could try Hot-dogging or Kayaking

Via Ferata

This is an exhilarating & safe way to climb a mountain. You are secured to a steel wire, fixed to the rock face and best of all this is FREE. (Equipment can be hired locally @ 10 euors).

Rock Climbing

Like the Via Ferata there are plenty of faces to try your hand at rock climbing.

Walking

The mountains in the Chatel valley provide miles of marked walking routes for both the novice and professionals. Organised walks can be arranged along with overnight stops in mountain refuge huts.

One of the many walks on offer for the more adventurous is the Refuge Trebentaz. Accompanied by a Guide you will climb steadily for 2.5 hours to the refuge. Here you will enjoy a 4 course evening meal with wine before retiring to your bunk for the night. The next morning watch the sun rise before a short walk to the summit with spectacular views.
The even more adventurous may like to try the 3 Peaks Challenge. This walk takes on Dent D' Oche (2221m), the mighty Cornet De Bise (2432m) and Mont de Grange (2432m). Why not try and break the record set by our local British residents of 18 hours and 35 minutes.
For the very serious walker you could ascend the Dent du Midi, just 40 minutes drive across the boarder into Switzerland. This spectacular mountain stands at 3257m.

Fantasticable

The only ride of its kind in Europe, a Zip Wire for the very adventurous! It starts with you lying face forward, suspended from an overhead cable, you are then released and within seconds you are 240m above the ground travelling at speeds of up to 100kph.

This ride takes on 2 spans and costs 34€ including your lift up.

Other Activities:

• Bobluge
• Devilkart
• Adventure parks
• Paragliding
• Horse & Pony Riding
• Fishing
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Quad Biking
• Boat Trips on the Spectacular Lake Geneva
• Wine Tasting

Golf

Not what you would normally come to the mountains for, but like mountain biking alpine golf is getting more popular every year. Our golf courses provide as well as great golf, the most spectacular scenery ever. Evian course is home of the Lady's Masters Championship each year. It has the spectacular backdrop of Lake Geneva.

At Villars, stand on the 1 st tee at a height of 1500 meters and drive your ball toward the infamous Mont Blanc.

The courses are endless.

Evening Entertainment:

As wells as daytime activities the village of Chatel has plenty going on in the evenings.

With regular entertainment provided weekly in the village square and plenty of restaurants to replenish the burnt of energy. For those who can still handle it the bars offering fun evenings some opening until the early hours of the morning.

Seasonal Events:

End of June: La Pass Portes du Soleil VTT – Mountain Bike event for all participants.

14th July: Bastille Day celebreations - Spectacular Fireworks over Lake Vonnes

Mid July: Montreux Jazz Festival – Music festival lasting 10 days with spectacular bands

Early August: Chatel Street Festival and Fete of ‘Saint Laurent'

Mid August: ‘Belle Dimanche'- Mountainside fete

For more information and maps of the area please go to the Chatel Tourist website on the following link: Office de Tourisme de CHATEL