What to expect from the French Alps this Winter | Hucksters Lodge
Hoping for a ski break to the French Alps this season? Here’s what to expect when you get out on the slopes.
Hucksters Ski Blog
Guides and news that keep you up-to-date with everything ski
Our blog is packed with information for new and returning visitors to Hucksters. From beginner’s guides to skiing, cultural events, and guides to Serre Chevalier, Les Arcs and our other resort locations, we share with you the magical experiences of a Huckster's ski holiday with doorstep skiing and skiing for the Christmas holidays! You'll discover why we're loved by those who stay at our ski lodge holidays.
Top 5 Things to Do on our Bucket List this Summer | Hucksters Lodge
This past year has been like no other and like most of the UK, we can't wait to get back outdoors again and enjoy al fresco dining and outdoor activities this Summer. The weather in the French Alps has been a bit hit and miss these past few weeks, so there'll be no stopping us this Summer (Covid permitting of course!) from getting out for some French sunshine. Here's what's on our bucket list to do this Summer season.
Top Tips for Planning a Ski Trip
There’s nothing more reviving than a winter escape in the snow-covered mountains. With the excitement of planning your next or your first ski excursion also comes stress for putting everything together. Most winter holidaymakers don’t factor in all the pitfalls and end up spending more money than they initially thought.
Hucksters' Lemon Cheesecake recipe
You've got to try this delicious Lemon Cheesecake recipe that we serve at our chalet in Vallandry. Here's Steve's guide on making it at home.
Chicken and Chorizo Stew Recipe
We share one of our favourite Winter recipes from the chalet, Chicken and Chorizo Stew. Recreate this classic dish in the comfort of your own home.
Recreate your own French night
Missing your Winter holiday in the French Alps? Recreate your very own French inspired party at home with these creative ideas.
Tartiflette Recipe
Bring home the taste of the mountains with this homemade recipe for Tartiflette. One of our chefs, Steve, shares his recipe for the dish. Enjoy!
The Benefits of a Weekend Ski Trip
Book one of Hucksters cheap skiing weekends and discover the magic of the alps without breaking the bank.
Why A Family Ski Trip Should be on Your Bucket List 2020/21
Our cosy chalets in beautiful locations have something for all the family. Make Hucksters the perfect place for next year's holiday with one of our fantastic family ski packages.
Dog Sledding in Vallandry: La Grande Odyssee Savoie Mont Blanc
Learn all about the international dog sled race that passes through Vallandry. Plus, get closer to nature with your own dog sled ride and make unforgettable memories on your ski holiday.
Beginner's Guide: Ski Etiquette
Understand the unspoken rules of ski etiquette to fit in on the piste and stay safe on the slopes.
What to Do in Vallandry, Les Arcs When You're Not Skiing
Discover all the best places to eat and things to do in Vallandry when you're not skiing. From restaurants and bars to outdoor activities, there's something for everyone.
Beginners Guide: How to Build Your Confidence as a Skier
Become a better a skier with our tips for beginners to boost confidence by perfecting your technique and improving your balance and control.
How to Organise a Group Ski Holiday
Organise the best group ski holiday to the French Alps with this guide. Whether you're planning a Christmas work do; hen or stag party; family get together; school trip or a friend's getaway, we have you covered!
Best bits from 2019's Ski Show
This year's Ski and Snowboard Fest was fantastic and we are ready for Winter 2019/20. Find out our best bits in our latest blog.
Where to Ski: Serre Chevalier
In this guide, we list five exceptional reasons why you should go on a ski holiday to Serre Chevalier over Les Arcs/La Plagne, Val d'Isere or Alpe d'Huez.
Win A Winter Holiday For Two
With snow appearing on the mountain peaks already, we thought it was about time we did a new Winter Prize Draw. Who'd like to WIN an amazing holiday in Serre Chevalier or Les Arcs this season?
Where to Ski: Vallandry, Les Arcs
France is a fantastic place to ski, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert. With plenty of ski resorts to pick from, we show why Peisey-Vallandry should top your list.
Beginner's Guide: How Easy is it to Ski and How Long Does It Take to Learn?
Learning to ski is easy but it can be daunting for beginners to take up a new sport or even try budget ski breaks. In our guide, we demystify skiing and give you helpful tips and tricks.
5 Benefits of Booking an Early Ski Trip
We've got a load of reasons why you need to book your ski trip early and not leave it until the last minute. Read up and avoid the pitfalls!
The Les Arcs Film Festival
In our new culture guide, we look at the Les Arcs Film Festival that graces the Alps in December, bringing another special activity to your holiday experience.
6 Reasons Why You Should Experience Skiing at Christmas
Six reasons why you should go on a Christmas skiing holiday. Will you be joining us for an enchanting festive season this year?
Beginner's Guide: Why Beginners Pick French Ski Resorts
Why is France the most popular skiing destination for British holidaymakers? Here are the top seven reasons why skiers are choosing the French Alps.
Beginner's Guides: Is a Skiing Holiday a Good Idea?
Have some doubts about booking a skiing holiday? Whether it's because of the kids, nerves, budgets or something else, here's five reasons why you should book today.
Why Skiing is a Great Workout
Is skiing as good for us at it feels? In this feature, we'll explain why skiing is a fantastic workout for you.
The History of Skiing
In this guide, we travel through time to discover the origins of skiing and track its popularity as a sport and beloved pastime.
What to Pack for a Skiing Holiday
In our latest blog, we offer the ultimate skiing packing list so you can feel prepared for your holiday.
Discover Briancon in the Summer
At an altitude of 1,326 metres, Briancon is the highest town in the whole of France. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its interesting fortifications built between the 18th and 20th century and in the winter months, it is a popular destination for budget ski holidays. However, in the summer, when the snow has melted from all but the peaks of the surrounding mountains, it is still worth exploring!
A Photographer's Guide to Serre Chevalier
The slopes of Serre Chevalier are amazing locations to photograph, even when the snow has melted at summer arrives. The luscious alpine scenery is filled with photo opportunities, and when staying at one of our catered chalets, Vallandry, you will have plenty of opportunities to head out and explore.
Spectacular Summer Sports in Vallandry, Les Arcs and Surrounding Area
It's not all about the winter in the French Alps, with a host of sports to try in the summer months. Find out more in our guide.
Goodbye Winter, Hello Spring
We bid farewell to another Ski Season and are now busy preparing for Summer. We share our best bits from the 2018/ 2019 Season with you.
How Will Brexit Affect My Holiday Plans?
With Brexit dominating the headlines, we look to the news to determine how this will impact our holidaymakers.
Early Bird Deal
With just a few weeks left of this Ski Season, we're already looking ahead to Winter 2019/20. We've frozen next season's prices at our current rates, so now's the time to snap up a fantastic deal on your Winter Holiday.
How to do a Shifty on Skis
Pulling off a shifty when you’re on your next cheap ski holiday is tough. Follow our guide however to learn how to master the shifty technique!
The Science Behind Skiing: Frequently Asked Questions
In this blog article we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the science behind skiing. Read on for some amazing tips and interesting info!
There's no skiing like Spring skiing
Spring is almost here, and if you haven't tried Spring Skiing before, we show you why it can be an amazing time to escape for a snow holiday.
What Should I Wear at Night on a Ski Holiday?
After a day of hard skiing, sometimes it can be difficult to work out what to wear. Bring lots of layers, stay warm, and read our guide for advice!
Let us entertain you
Apres is an essential part of your Winter holiday. Read on to find out how our team entertain you on your trip to the French Alps.
The Science Behind Alpine Skiing & Hitting Top Speeds!
So, you want to know how to hit top speed the next time you go skiing? Check out how to increase your speed . . . using science!
5 Crazy Winter Sports For Adrenaline Junkies
Skiing and snowboarding are some of the most terrific and the most well known winter sports on the planet, but have you heard of these even crazier ones?
The Big Ski Fashion Trends for 2019
Are you ready for this year's winter look? Get your slope style ready with our guide to the stuff you really, really want for your fashion wardrobe in 2019!
Fresh snow hits the Alps
After wall to wall sunshine so far this month in the Alps, the snow has returned for the first time in 2019.
The Best Ski Accessories for 2019
Any skier knows that great gear is essential for a memorable skiing season. Check out what 2019 has to offer!
The Lifts Are Open
It's here! The lifts are officially open and the slopes are being groomed to perfection. Find out what's new and what's on this Winter across the Alps.
Top 8 Health Benefits of Skiing
Skiing is not just an amazing and fun way to spend your free time – it is also a great way to stay in shape, lose calories, and improve your health!
How to go away skiing for one day
If you're snowed under with work and can't get away for a week's skiing or even a long weekend, why not escape for a whirlwind one-day experience?
What to Consider When Buying Skis
For beginners to skiing, you'll be happy to know that finding the right pair of skis is easy, but there are a few things you'll need to consider before exchanging money.
A Magical Mountain Christmas With Hucksters
There are just 6 weeks left until Christmas and we are getting very excited in the Alps. Find out what makes a Christmas holiday with us so special and how we get ready for the big day.
6 Easy to Learn Tricks on Skis
Even beginner skiers dream of pulling off basic ski tricks, even just once. Of course, performing a trick can be dangerous, and bones could break if you are not properly informed of the exercises and tricks you are doing before you start.
Highlights from the Ski & Snowboard Festival 2018
We're back from this year's Ski & Snowboarding Festival! We share our best bits and highlights from the biggest ski show of the year.
6 Gift Ideas for Skiers
Christmas is just around the corner and you if you have a friend or family member who skis, you may be scratching your head deciding a gift for them! Read our guide for some suggestions.
5 Ways To Convince Your Beloved To Love Skiing
Skiing might be your passion, but perhaps it’s not shared by your loved one. Here’s five ways to show them why skiing might just be their new favourite sport.
7 Interesting Facts About Christmas
It is the most wonderful time of the year according to many, but how much do you actually know about Christmas? Find out some interesting facts about the holiday in this blog.
New Brochure & Your Chance to Win a 7-Night Winter Holiday
With just a few months to go until the new season begins, we are getting ready with the launch of our 2018/19 brochure and a very special prize draw.
How to Make a Magical Christmas for the Kids
Christmas is a magical occasion for the whole family but in particular the kids. Make this year’s Christmas unforgettable for them with our guide.
Why You Should Go Away for Christmas
Christmas is about spending time with family, creating memories and giving, and a Christmas get-away is the perfect way to achieve just that.
Top Tips for your Family Ski Holiday
A holiday should be relaxing, but when it's a family holiday we know that with all the planning and packing, dietary requirements and travelling, it isn't always as relaxing as you'd hoped! We've put together our top tips on how to make sure your Family Ski Holiday goes off without a hitch.
The Science Behind Skiing and Perfecting Ski Jumps
There's more to skiing and ski jumping than you may think. There are many forces at play when you adorn skis and head for the slopes. Learn all about the science behind the sport in our feature!
Our Summer in the Alps
Racing, adrenaline-filled activities and a proposal! We had it all in the French Alps this summer. Find out what we got up to and why France is the 'go-to' destination for your next summer holiday.
Men's Ski Fashion Trends 2018/19
In this latest feature, we take a look at the popular styles and trends that will make you look sharp on the slopes this winter ski season.
What's New in Les Arcs
Most of the ski resorts are taking the opportunity to make improvements and add new features. Check out what Les Arcs has got under their sleeve this Winter!
Women's Ski Fashion Trends 2018/19
We share the latest women's ski fashion to help you look and feel a million pounds on the slopes next season (even on a budget!).
An A-Z Guide to Getting Clued Up on Modern Ski Slang: Part II
It can definitely be daunting keeping up with all the conversations if you're new to the scene, so we've got you covered with our guide to the lingo.
Big Trends for Winter 2018/19
The world of Skiing and Snowboarding is ever changing with new additions to resorts and new equipment being developed. With that in mind, we explore the newest trends for this Winter.
Top 10 Things To Do This Summer in the French Alps
The French Alps is spoilt with endless activities to try this Summer. We've put together our ten favourites that you've got to try this Summer.
An A-Z Guide to Getting Clued-Up on Modern Ski Slang: Part I
Just like most sports, there's jargon involved in snowsports. So, if you don't know your shakas from your dumps, we've got you covered in our A-Z guide to ski slang.
5 Reasons Why You Should Book Your Winter Holiday With Hucksters
When it comes to booking your next holiday on the slopes you may have a few 'must have's' that will make your Winter break the best yet. We give you 5 reasons why Hucksters will tick all your boxes for a great budget-friendly holiday.
Summer Survival Tips for Skiers and Snowboarders
If you are too scared to pack the goggles and gloves away for fear of official winter season closure setting in, then we've got a handful of ideas to help you survive summer.
Quick Tips for Picking the Right Snowboard for You
When it comes to snowboards, you need to know what you're riding, and making the right choice can be tricky if you don't know what you're looking for. We've got a snappy guide you can refer to!
On your bikes for Le Tour de France
We are super excited that Stage 12 of this year's Tour De France passes through Bourg St Maurice, not far from our Vallandry base. Join us for four days of race action (and a bit of relaxation) in the spectacular Savoie region of France.
How to Stay Safe on the Slopes
We've got some great information here for you to follow on how you can keep yourself, and others, safe on the slopes on your next ski holiday. Top tips that even seasoned skiers could use!
A Beginner's Guide to Skiing (or How Not to!)
Hucksters invited one of our marketing team along on our latest trip out to Serre Chevalier and Vallandry to check out the April snow and as a beginner.
4 Ultimate Off-Season Exercises for Skiers
Before you start thinking about booking ski holidays for the 2018/19 season, get some off-season strength and conditioning exercises in. Here are four of the best exercises you can do to get you nicely set up for the ski season.
World's Fastest Ski Race Track Event Wows Crowds with Speeds
The Speed Masters saw the world's fastest ski race track being tackled over the recent Easter weekend, there were some absolutely phenomenal speeds being recorded. Here's what went down…
A Guide to Tackling the Tough Runs
Just how are you going to get down the run that’s too much for you? How do you take on and overcome these tough runs? All is explained in this handy little guide to tackling the tough runs on your next ski holiday!
Have you heard about our Summer Adventure Weeks?
With only 4 weeks left of the season, perhaps like us you're already thinking of your summer holiday?! Our B&B breaks are back plus an Adventure Week in Serre Chevalier and Summer Reunion Weekend in Vallandry.
We are taking bookings for 2018/19!
We are now taking bookings for 2018/19 season! Experience skiing at its best in our lodges across Europe. Book your holiday before 31st May 2018 and we'll freeze our current prices for you!
4 Essential Tips to Keep Your Kids Warm and Dry on Ski Holidays
Check out this handful of handy top tips for you to take on board that will help keep your nippers (and you) warm, fuzzy and happy on your next ski trip.
Skiing or Snowboarding: Which Do I Choose?
Check out a few of the most-asked questions when it comes to ski and snowboard learning here, so you can get a good idea of what to expect before you take to the slopes.
Essential Ski Trip Preparation Tips
Here are a handful of top tips you can follow before you head off for some fun in the mountains on your next ski holiday!
Introducing our new team in Vallandry
We've got some new faces at our lodge in Vallandry. Meet our bunch of adventurers... Joe, Leanora, Steve, Ben, Holly, Bee and James!
How to Capture Awesome Snowsports Action on Camera
For skiers or boarders with a camera for those sweet (and fail) moments we've got six amazing tips to capture them in the best way possible!
6 Reasons Why Skiing Should Be Your New Year's Resolution
There are a whole host of reasons why you should try skiing as your New Year's resolution, and we've got six of the best right here!
New Year, New You: 5 Reasons to Try a Ski Holiday in 2018
If you've never been skiing or snowboarding before then check out these reasons why you need to give it a go!
9 Fun Facts About Skiing
Learn more on these nine cool facts about skiing that will whet your appetite before you head out to have fun in the snow!
6 Tops Tips for the Snowboard Newbie
Don't stay a snowboard newb for long with our top tips for the beginner!
5 of the Coolest Restaurants in Vallandry, Les Arcs
When it comes to eating out in Vallandry, you're spoilt for choice, so here are five of our favourite places to check out when you're here!
A Traditional Christmas with Hucksters
If you're lucky enough to be heading out to the mountains with Hucksters this Christmas, here's what you can expect as part of the package!
What to Give Skiers and Snowboarders for Christmas
Looking for some extra inspiration this Christmas? Take a peek at these present suggestions that are perfect for the skier/snowboarder in your life!
Menu for 2018
We would like your help with our menu for this season. By completing our simple survey you can tell us what you like about our menu, what you want to change and what you enjoy most or what old favourites you would like to see back again.
Snow making in Les Arcs
Well having learnt how the snow cannon work the really good news is that they have been running them in Vallandry in the last 24 hours!
Maintenance
It is that time of year when we work on the chalet to get her looking her best for the season. This year there are some major changes to the lodges. We are remodelling them to form a new 16 bed lodge including some ensuite shower rooms.
Enjoy some early skiing in Slovenia
Winter has come early in Slovenia, with Bovec enjoying 90cm of snow this week. The resort will be opening the slopes this weekend and every weekend until the main season starts in December.
Why Snowmakers Are a Resort's Best Friend
Why snowmakers are a resort's best friend - everything you could possibly want to know about the wonderful invention that is the snow cannon!
Snowshoeing
We know the reason you take a Winter holiday is to pursue your passion for skiing or snowboarding. The buzz of conquering the piste and the thrill of pushing boundaries yet there is so much more to enjoy within the Alpine environment maybe something a bit slower yet still active and something different, like snowshoeing. Well we here at Hucksters have tried it and can quite honestly say are a little bit addicted, along it seems with many others as it is the according to some the fastest growing winter sport.
Bars and Restaurants You Should Try in Tignes According to a Seasonaire:
Check out seasonaire Owen's pick of best bars and restaurants you can head to while you’re enjoying your ski holidays in Tignes!
Upcoming Ski Show 2017
The 2017 Ski & Snowboard Show is here and we cannot wait to get in and find out what the latest trends & tech will be this season. Come and find us on Friday or Saturday to chat about our 2017/18 Winter Holiday packages.
Your Guide to Organising a Group Ski Holiday
Make the most of our essential guide that will help you to organise your next group snow trip.
The Essential Apps You Need for Your Next Ski Trip
As they say, 'there's an app for that', so take a look and see what ski/snowboard apps you'll be downloading next!
Paul
As the nights are drawing in and it is starting to get grey in the UK, just like the birds, it is time for me to think about flying south for the winter.Preparations are well underway for heading out to Vallandry and honestly I just cannot wait This will be my third season and now I am managing the Mont Blanc Chalet with Julie - So how did I get here? Well this all started as a mid career sabbatical but it has turned into a fantastic new lifestyle!
Life as a Senior Seasonaire
How did I ever get started in this??? Well about ten years ago I stumbled across Hucksters whilst purchasing my first pair of ski boots At that time I had only been skiing two or three times, but I was already hooked, I duly turned up to meet the coach in Plymouth early on the Friday morning. I was immediately welcomed on to the coach by the whole group. From that point on I never looked back. I offered to stay on and help, as they say, the rest is history. I thoroughly enjoyed helping out and being welcomed into the Hucksters family, working with them, skiing together and even partying with them. Peak season helping led to life as a senior seasonaire!
Natalie
Ever wondered what it would be like to do a ski season? Would it be a long holiday with lots of skiing and partying? or would it be really hard work? Well the answer is both and something more besides, friendships formed for life, a bond in overcoming food preparation and memories of a time never to be repeated. We are going to bring you accounts of the experiences of some of our staff over the next few weeks and this week we start with Natalie who joined as a cook and has gone on to be an invaluable member of the Hucksters family.
Lifts
Our passion for downhill skiing or snowboarding by necessity requires us to invest every year in a ski pass. Without access to the lifts our sport would become something very different and considerably harder work! Cross-country or Nordic skiing is all very well and good but it is the exhilaration of travelling downhill under our own momentum that brings us back to the mountains year after year. Ski passes are not an insignificant part of the cost of our winter holiday so what exactly are we getting for the price of our pass? Well rather a lot in Les Arcs and the Paradiski with plans for even more in the future.
Day in the life of a chalet host
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your winter holiday at Hucksters? A life as a Chalet Host is certainly no mean feat! In truth, the role needs someone with a vibrant personality and someone with a love of all things snow of course! Then there's the cooking skills and attention to detail required to make someone's stay special. We share a day in the life of one of our chalet hosts.
Parent's Guide to Sending Kids Off on a School Ski Trip
It's only understandable that you will have some concerns about sending your kid off on their first ski trip without you. Here's six top tips to prepare and protect your kid.
My Summer in Vallandry: Highlights from the Host
Our very own Julie Phillips shares what it''s like to spend a summer holiday in Vallandry. She wrote this for the blog in 2017 to tell us about her first time running the Hucksters summer breaks.
September in Serre Chevalier: Late Summer Breaks
Landscapes and nature in the valley are drastically changing, the Alps really keeps you on your toes with the amazing ever-changing seasons. Just one of the reasons for a late summer break in Serre Chevalier.
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