Author: Al Slinn

Spring festivals

Posted on by Al Slinn

With the last ski resorts closing off their season, winter is officially over. We are equally nostalgic and excited for the warmer days to come! Spring is also a time for us to slow things down and relax before our summer events begin. While we wait for the mountains to be suitable for summer activities again, one of our favorite things about this season are the spring festivals all around Europe. Starting with the Unlimted Festival , right here in Chamonix!

Here’s a list of some of the best spring festivals in Europe put together by Rad Season.

Sónar Reykjavík

Forget the 40 degrees heat and the hot beers. Sónar Reykjavík is all about geysers, northern lights and a plethora of amazing artists.

Now in its seventh edition, the festival is unmissable both for the vastness of the program and for the location. The Harpa Concert Hall is one of the most evocative examples of Northern Europe architecture and Iceland is not one of the coolest destination of the region. In Reykjavík you can can find a craft vodka distillery just 40km from the city and you can enjoy the local public heated swimming pool for free.

When & where: March 18-20, 2019 – Reykjavík, Iceland

Snowbombing, Austria

For those who love music and snowboarding, Snowbombing is a must. This famous Austrian festival has been perfectly combining the two since 2000. Riding the slopes at day and partying at night is an April tradition in Mayrhofen, a lush Austrian sky resort town.

You will be partying in the strangest of places, from forest clearings to alpine farmsteads and an igloo village. The lineup is varied, with something for everyone from electronic DJs to indie live acts. Bring your best party jacket but make sure it is designed for extreme weather conditions.

When & where: April 8-13, 2019 – Mayrhofen, Austria

Lost & Found Festival, Malta

If you are not the snow type, you can enjoy the an early taste of summer in Malta. Curated by BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac, Lost and found Malta is an electronic festival celebrating club culture outside of the icy club scenes of Berlin and London.

This year on it’s 5th edition, Lost & Found brings high quality, international artists in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea to let you enjoy world class electronic music in between pool-parties, boat-parties and even a castle rave. A high-energy festival perfect to unwind during spring break. Are you ready to pack shades and bikinis for one of the raddest festivals in Europe?

When & where: May 2-5, 2019 –  St Paul’s Bay, Malta

Nuits Sonores, France

A 360 degrees creativity festival, Nuits Sonores takes over the city of Lyon in eastern France each May for more then 10 years now. From experimental techno and electronic music to graphic design and contemporary art, this is the place to be to expanding ones cultural horizons. The festival events are spread over 40 iconic public spaces of the city.

The lineup is firmly rooted in the underground, showcasing both internationally celebrated artists and emerging talents across three days and four nights. Every year, the festival welcomes three established names to curate the daytime festivities: in 2019 it is the time for Bonobo, Peggy Gou, Maceo Plex and Lena Willikens.

When & where: May 28 – June 2, 2019 – Lyon, France

The Great Escape, United Kingdom

The Great Escape is a showcase for new music, mixed with well-known artists, both for the festival goers and for the industry insiders. Brighton, probably the cutest seaside city of the United Kingdom will be literally invaded by music for 3 days: 450 artists, 30 city venues plus a huge (double) location on the beach.

The lineup showcases the future of pop and alternative music, including emerging names ranging from South Korea to Canada, from Australia to Portugal, with British representation. The genres go from the Indian electronics to rap. Between a dj set by Laurel Halo, the rough guitars of Goat Girl and the psychs of Chileans The Ganjas, the advice is to venture through the dense program in search of the musical discovery of the year.

When & where: May 9-11, 2019 – Brighton, UK

Primavera Sound, Spain

The last event of the spring season is probably one of the better known and most loved in Europe. Barcelona’s Primavera Sound is an indie rock giant event which also features some dance and electronic music.

The festival keeps its roots under the wide canopy of world class rock, with this year headliners including Future, Janelle Monáe, Nas and Rosalía. But also giving rising artists an international platform to perform. Primavera Sound is one of those massive events that can leave you a bit drained, but try to save some energy to explore Barcelona, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

When & where: May 30 – June 1, 2019 – Barcelona, Spain

Agafay desert

Posted on by Al Slinn

Even though the end of a winter season is always quite nostalgic, there’s nothing better than looking ahead to a new exciting event. That’s why we felt over the moon when we recently confirmed a trip to one of our favorite event spots outside of Europe: Morocco!

This multi-faceted destination has been in our portfolio for years and we have run some memorable corporate events there in the past. That’s why, when our client suggested Morocco, we immediately thought of Agafay desert.

What is Agafay desert?

This desert is located about 1 hour drive from Marrakech and covers several hundred hectares. Since several years now, it has become the place to be for visitors coming to Marrakech. The landscape is impressive, with rock dunes and a breathtaking view of the mountains during the winter.

What to do in Agafay desert?

One of the most incredible activities in Agafay desert is enjoying an exceptional night in one of the camps. There is a wide choice of accommodation: domes, lodges, or tents. This is a great way to admire the beautiful sunset and dine under the starry sky of Agafay.

If only spending the day, a great option is a lunch or dinner by the pool in one of the camps with a panoramic view of the desert. This is also a great opportunity to try the delicious Moroccan cuisine.

In the mood for some exploration? It’s time for a quad ride! This is by far the best way to discover the most beautiful landscapes of Agafay desert, while taking a tea break in a traditional bivouac.

And finally, for those looking for something unique, a camel ride will take you to the heart of Agafay in the most authentic of ways.

{ Source: Marrakechbestof.com }

One thing’s for sure: we can’t wait to write up the agenda for this Moroccan event!

A busy winter season

Posted on by Al Slinn

As the end of March approaches, we are still buzzing as we look back to the ski season just passed. After Covid slowed down the event industry for over two years, who would have thought we’d have such a busy winter season!

Our calendar overflowed with events and we probably had one of the busiest months of March ever, with 9 events across France, Austria, Italy and the UK. Here is a photographic overview of the places we have visited with our clients since the beginning of winter.

Val d’Isère

We started off visiting one of the most renowned ski resorts in France. Val d’Isère is known for its big party scene and it’s home to the first Folie Douce ever built. We found some great snow conditions and weather!

Verbier

When in Verbier, try the Rösti! This Swiss ski resort is impressive in size and quality of the skiing. That said, we still prefer the French cuisine…

Courmayeur

Finally, a little jump on the sunny side of Mont Blanc. Courmayeur never disappoints: the weather is often sunny indeed, and if it’s not, you can always get into a fancy après bar or a wooden restaurant on the slopes to eat delicious food. Our n.1 recommended restaurant on the slopes: Maison Vieille.

Chamonix

Chamonix is our base and we will always consider it the best ski resort in the world! We ran several events in Chamonix this winter and our clients stayed in great hotels as well as fabulous private chalets. Look at that stunning view! Not too bad for a lunch spot, is it?

London

If Chamonix is indeed our new home, most of the Ten80 team is originally from the UK and has spent a part of their life in London. That’s why it is always so emotional to go back with our clients. We ran this event at 180 The Strand, an inspiring venue for a very inspiring conference!

St Anton

If you are looking for a party spot in the Alps, look no further than St Anton. This resort is legendary for its crazy après, and we are sure our clients could confirm! In the picture: Krazy Kanguruh, the most well-known après spot in St Anton.

Flaine

And finally, Flaine. This French ski resort is not one of the most well-known, but it certainly delivers in terms of skiing and value for money. It was a great resort to close off our season and get a bit nostalgic already.

We are now off to some well-deserved rest for a few weeks but we will back soon, running our summer events and organising our next ski season. We can’t wait for another amazing winter in the Alps!

Flaine

Posted on by Al Slinn

This month of March has been one of the busiest we’ve ever seen, with 9 corporate events running between Italy, France, Austria, and the UK. While we’ve been back to some renown destinations, like Courmayeur or St Anton, we are closing off the season in the less-known French ski resort of Flaine.

Although Flaine might not get the sparkly reputation of resorts like Chamonix, we do think it deserves some credit as it proved to be a solid destination for events. This article on onthesnow.co.uk does a good job listing Flaine’s perks. Here’s a summary of the main ones.

The historical side

Purpose built in the 1960s in a large bowl of powder facing West and aptly nicknamed the “big snowy bowl”, Flaine offers the widest range of skiing in the Grand Massif ski area. The resort is not the most picturesque and for some visitors the architecture is too much to take. But if you can ignore the concrete buildings and focus on the fluffy white stuff, you’ll find a resort with excellent facilities. The village centre is mainly car free, compact and convenient.

The cultural side

Flaine is regarded as a cultural landmark in France having been designed in the Bauhuas style by architect Marcel Breuer. As a result, it is a hub for modern arts and at the bottom of the slopes there’s a range of art by abstract artists, the most notable piece being a large Picasso sculpture of a woman’s head. In recent years, the resort has also undergone a number of refurbishments. The Totem, a hotel originally designed by Breuer, has been revamped and rebranded as the ultra-cool and minimalist Hotel Terminal Neige Totem.  

The economical side

Among Flaine’s many attractions, is that it’s a resort that won’t break the bank. There are plenty of low-cost accommodation options available to appeal to a hip crowd of skiers who are more appreciative of Flaine’s artistic credentials than previous visitors. Newer chalet style accommodation is also available.

We do hope to keep Flaine in our destination portfolio for the winters to come. Experiencing quirky or less well-known ski resorts is part of our job, and one that we certainly appreciate!

Rock the Pistes festival

Posted on by Al Slinn

Spring is a time of the year we absolutely love. Snow is still abundant on the slopes, with typical late-season snow dumps, and when the sun comes out you can even attempt to ski in your t-shirt! It’s not just about the weather, though: March and April also mark the start of festival season in the mountains. This week in the Alps, it’s all about Rock the Pistes festival.

Rock the Pistes is a pop/rock festival in the French-Swiss Portes du Soleil ski resort. For a whole week, spectators can enjoy live concerts by international artists right on the ski slopes, in the middle of the mountain.

This year the festival runs from 12th to 18th March. The program is quite impressive:

12/03 Morzine-Les Gets – Martin Solveig
13/03 Morzine-Les Gets – Suzane
14/03 Châtel – MØME
15/03 Montriond-Les Lindarets-Domaine skiable Avoriaz – Klingande
17/03 Châtel – Eagle Eye Cherry
18/03 Morgins – La P’tite Fumée
18/03 Morgins – Étienne De Crécy

Concerts happen during the day on ephemeral stages all over the ski area and are only accessible by skiing. There are also after-ski concerts in the afternoon, for a total of 35 live concerts during the week.

This unique festival is accessible with a Ski Concert Pass (Portes du Soleil ski pass), which is available at all the ski lifts of the 12 Portes du Soleil resorts.

In short, Rock the Piste festival is: 5 major artists in concerts on the slopes at 1:30 pm (warm-up DJ sets at 12:45 pm) + 30 après-ski concerts in the heart of the resorts with emerging artists from the international scene. A truly sensational event not to be missed!

The Vallée Blanche

Posted on by Al Slinn

Even though our winter events include mainly on-piste skiing, it isn’t unusual for clients to ask for adrenaline-fuelled activities off piste. The Alps, especially Chamonix, are a beautiful terrain for all sorts of adventures. With the help of an experienced guide, you can spend a truly memorable day out there! Our top recommendation for expert skiers in the Chamonix Valley is, without a doubt, The Vallée Blanche.

As explained in this article by Chamonix All Year, skiing the Vallée Blanche is an incredible, high-altitude off-piste experience. This route descends from the top of the Aiguille du Midi, at 3,842m altitude, down to Chamonix, 2,800m below. It is most famous for its spectacular glaciated terrain. As such, you need a minimum of knowledge of alpinism and the local environment, and you must be well-equipped.

Access for Skiing Vallée Blanche

Historically, the best conditions to take on this route are from January to May depending on the snow cover. To access the starting point at 3,842m you must take two cable cars from the centre of Chamonix to the top of the Aiguille Du Midi.

The cable cars are included on your Chamonix ski pass if you have the full area Mont Blanc Unlimited pass. In high season you can also reserve a cable car in advance at a time to suit your itinerary – usually one of the first few for a full day and fresh lines!

Initiation: the Arête

The ridge that connects the Aiguille du Midi to the Vallée Blanche is a test of nerve ahead of meeting the departure point for your day’s adventures. Consider it your initiation for an adrenaline-packed day!

Not for those with a fear of heights, there is a 150m hike across a ridge line that takes you to a wide platform, which opens directly to the Vallée Blanche.

You can put your vertigo at ease as, once the snow base builds up, you will be faced with a rope to hold onto and a groomed / maintained path about 1m wide (not necessarily level). Crampons are therefore often recommended by your guide, to whom you may be attached as an added security.

Once you reach the natural platform simply strap on your snowboard, or step into your skis. Don’t forget the time for a quick photo! You are surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of the Chaine du Mont Blanc, now closer than ever.

In good company: your guide

The Vallée Blanche is an off-piste, unmarked route which takes place on a glaciated high-mountain terrain. Supervision by a qualified high mountain guide is the safest way to fully enjoy the snow and views. From experience, your guide will choose the best route for your level and share their knowledge and history of the surrounding mountains.

Public groups are limited to a maximum of eight people, allowing the guide to provide personalised advice and ensure optimal progression. You will also be grouped together, either with other skiers or snowboarders, so that you can take the optimum route for each style.

Alternatively, you can hire a private guide. This is ideal if you want to try an alternate route, mix skiers and snowboarders, or create a special itinerary to make your ski dreams come true!

Skiing & snowboarding: your level

Skiing the Vallée Blanche should not be your first foray into off-piste skiing, but you don’t have to be an expert either. There is something for all to enjoy as long as you can turn accurately and stop at will in unpredictable off-piste conditions.

You will also need a decent level of both cardio fitness and ski fitness. Not only is there roughly 25km of variable skiing conditions, there’s either lengthy stairs or a hefty hike out towards the end.

It is said that the technical difficulty of the Vallée Blanche (Classique) is similar to that of a red piste. Much like any popular piste in good conditions, there is the potential for moguls to develop. Moguls may slow the rhythm of snowboarders in particular, however skiers should also know how to navigate them with ease.

Snowboarders must also be wary of long flat traverses that may require poles. Meanwhile, skiers must know how to control their speed, side-slip confidently, and make parallel turns.

The way down: skiing Vallée Blanche routes

  1. The Classique. This is the easiest route technically and the most “tracked” or travelled line. It follows the slower route in the heart of the great labyrinth of glaciers: the glacier du Géant, the Tacul glacier and the Mer de Glace. Making your way across the arête, and the sometimes delicate passage of seracs before joining the Mer de Glace, constitute the main technical difficulties.
  2. The “True / Vrai Vallée Blanche”. This historic route is located between the Vallée Blanche Classique and Envers and offers a course in the heart of ice formations. This is a beautiful route famous for spectacular turquoise ice structures and small seracs. It requires a good level of skiing due to its constant proximity to crevasses.
  3. The Petit Envers. A nice alternative to the classic Vallée Blanche, penetrating between the “True Vallée Blanche” and the Envers du Plan glacier. This itinerary is a wonderful option for skiers who want to graduate from the True Vallée Blanche, without being too technical.
  4. The Grand Envers. Want to ski steep slopes reserved for very good skiers? This is the route for you. With slopes at 45° and the reputation for being the most beautiful (and difficult) route of the valley. Take off directly from the arête onto the Envers du Plan glacier. This route is technically demanding with a mix of slopes and passages between large seracs.

The final stretch: Montenvers train vs Buvette des Mottets

When the Vallée Blanche is coming to an end your guide will decide between two finishes, based on conditions.

  1. Either hike out of the Vallée Blanche to join the ski piste that will take you back to Chamonix,
  2. Or climb the steps to join the Montenvers train which will take back to Chamonix town centre.

If in late spring, you can’t ski back down to Chamonix due to snow conditions and you will have to take the train. You might also choose the Montenvers train for its history and views. But remember you’ll still need to take on roughly 400+ steps to reach the cable car, which will link you to the train station.

Alternatively, should there be plenty of snow, after fifteen minutes of steep tiresome hiking you will reach the Buvette des Mottets at 1,638m. Formerly on the edge of the glacier, it is now over a hundred metres away. The hike joining the two skiing sections is increasing each year, as the Mer de Glace retreats.

Once you reach the top you can stop for a drink or picnic with breathtaking views on the west side of the Aiguille des Drus. Then, head down a fun (boardercross-like) forest trail descent back to Chamonix!

Courmayeur

Posted on by Al Slinn

After our habitual quiet time in February, we are getting ready for the busiest time of the season. March will be a pretty exciting month, with several events happening all over the Alps! Our first destination is Courmayeur, on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Courmayeur could be considered the antithesis of Chamonix – glamorous, fashionable and chic as opposed to sporty, casual Cham.

There are many reasons why we love Courmayeur (the pizza, for example!). But the main one is, this resort has much to offer to both skiers and non-skiers.

On this article on. Svadore.com we found a list of activities to do in Courmayeur, whether you are a pro skier or just a very passionate shopper & eater!

1. Cafes

How can you be in Italy and not try the very italian espresso + cornetto breakfast? Caffè della posta, Caffè Centro and Bar la Briciola are all great spots to experience a well-made traditional Italian breakfast in Courmayuer.

2. Aperitivo

Same goes for the traditional Italian aperitivo! We have personally tried Café Roma, where the EXTREMELY copious buffet will be enough to cover your aperitivo, dinner and midnight snack. For a more fancy vibe and an outdoor lounge, you want to try the Grand Hotel Royal and Golf right in the pedestrian center of Courmayeur. Other pretty cool spots are La Bouche and Le Dahu.

3. Skyway Monte Bianco

Skyway Monte Bianco is what some call the eighth wonder of the world. A sight like this of Mont Blanc and its neighbouring alps cannot be described or captured in pictures. Above it all, it feels like you are walking on an entirely separate planet. Skyway Monte Bianco opened in 2015 is the world’s most expensive cable car linking Courmayeur to Pointe Helbronner. But it’s not just any ordinary ski lift…there are plenty of cool stops along the way you’ll want to experience. You can visit the highest library in Europe, stop by any of the 3 Skyway Monte Bianco Stations for a luxurious Alpine meal, wander through the Saussurea Alpine Botanical Gardens, toast to your experience with a glass of wine at the Cave Mont Blanc, and more.

4. Ski

And then, of course, the skiing! In Courmayeur you can ski leisurely on some easier slopes, take on some harder less frequented slopes, or find a perfect balance of on-piste and off-piste activities. This is just perfect for our corporate groups, where ski levels typically vary. And if you want to take a break and have a fancy glass of Prosecco, Super G on the slopes is where you want to head to!

5. Shop

Hit the slopes, then hit the shops on the main street, Via Roma. Courmayeur is ritzy with its ’70s style buildings lining the main street, but ritzy is not always a bad thing. It also means the town is extremely well maintained. Shopping here is definitely at the top of many people’s lists. There’s no shortage of Mont Blanc, The North Face, Gucci, Hermès, Balenciaga, Aspesi, Rolex, Moncler etc. Of course, for a different type of shopping, you can also visit Enoteca Gioio: you will find plenty of grappa ai mirtilli here!

6. Dinner on the mountain

One of the best and most unique things about Courmayeur is that you can enjoy dinner on the slopes till midnight. Some restaurants offer transportation in different and fun forms, whether it’s by dog sled, snowmobile, or other means. Some even offer the added experience of skiing back down the mountain with an instructor at night. Our n.1 recommended spot for this experience is Maison Vieille, where we have been taking our clients for years. On the menu: a 4-course dinner followed by grappa and lots of dancing!

7. QC Terme Pré Saint Didier

After a few days skiing, you’ll be in need of a thermal bath to help your muscles relax. The hot waters are said to stimulate blood circulation and improve muscle movement. QC Terme Pré Saint Didier, just a 10-minute drive from Courmayeur, is a stunning spot for relaxing after a day on the slopes. Who doesn’t want to sink in a hot thermal bath surrounded by snow capped mountains anyway?

Best Carnivals

Posted on by Al Slinn

It’s that strange time of the year when winter is still lingering and spring has not started yet. You are starting to wonder how to pass the time until the warmer days come. And then you realise: it’s Carnival! This celebration exists in more than 50 countries all over the world and some cities have really taken it to the next level, making their Carnival worth a trip. In this article on carnivaland.net we found the best 10 best Carnivals in Europe, so you know exactly where to head to next time you find yourself a bit bored during February days.

1. Viareggio Carnival, Italy

One of the most renowned carnival celebrations in Europe is the Viareggio Carnival. This carnival takes place in Viareggio, an Italian coastal town in Tuscany, and attracts around a million visitors every year. It first started back in 1873 when the city’s rich residents protested the high tax rates.

Viareggio Carnival is famous for the most amazing floats, which are the biggest and the best in the world. The floats are giant 20-meter-high papier-mache floats that will usually represent that years’ current carnival theme. The floats can range from mythical creatures to politicians like Donald Trump. There is also a famous Carnival Museum in town where you can see the floats or do a papier-mache workshop.

2. Nice Carnival, France

Many speculate that Nice Carnival may be the oldest carnival celebration in the world. There are documented records of it dating as far back as the 13th century. It runs for two weeks prior to Ash Wednesday and attracts a million people.

Nice Carnival hosts several street parades, but the one that it is most famous for is the Flower Parade. The Flower Parade sees participants riding impressive decorated floral floats and throwing flowers to the audience. It is estimated that around 100,000 flowers are thrown during this parade. Another popular parade is the Night Time Parade.

The celebrations end with the Grande Parade followed by an impressive firework show and bonfire. There are numerous street parties that occur during carnival and it is a time that sees revellers over-indulge in food and drink.

3. Venice Carnival, Italy

Venice Carnival is one of the most famous carnival celebrations in the entire world, it dates back centuries and is famous for its venetian carnival masks. Millions come from all over the world to marvel at the beautiful period costumes and masks that look majestic against the beautiful backdrop of Venice. 

Venice Carnival is also famous for throwing extravagant, luxurious and glamorous private masquerade balls and parties in grand Venetian Palaces. St Marks Square is the epicentre for all the action, and sees parades, costume competitions, acrobatic shows, theatre performances, live music and more. Shrove Tuesday is the main day of celebrations.

Wearing masks is an ancient carnival tradition that allows people to hide their social class and anonymously get up to some debauchery. It means that a housewife could indulge in some hanky panky or a noble man could mix with the common people. The Venetian Carnival masks are famous all around the world and are usually white with some intricate design on the edges.

4. Binche Carnival, Belgium

Binche Carnival is one of the oldest carnivals in all of Europe. UNESCO recognises it for its Intangible significance. Binche is a small town located south of Brussels and is only a short car ride away.

This carnival is famous for its main character the Gillies. The Gillies are mythical creatures that date back centuries to its pagan roots. They perform traditional dances and make scary noises to chase away the evil winter spirits and usher in the spring. The Gillies are performed by thousands of local boys and men who wear traditional carnival costumes and masks.

Binche Carnival attracts about 100,000 visitors every year and its main festivities occur in the three days prior to Ash Wednesday; Shrove Sunday, Rose Monday and Shrove Tuesday. During these days there are street parades, a confetti battle, firework shows, a champagne and oyster breakfast and lots more.

5. Ivrea, Italy

Ivrea Carnival is another ancient carnival that occurs in the small medieval town of Ivrea in Italy. It dates to medieval times and it hosts Italy’s biggest food fight, known as The Battle of the Oranges.

The Battle of the Oranges uses 400 tons of oranges in their food fight and re-enacts an ancient battle from when the town of Ivrea was freed from an evil tyrant that ruled the city. You can opt out of the fight by wearing a red hat but what’s the fun in that!

6. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival, Spain

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival, held in Spain’s Canary Islands, claims to be the second best carnival celebration in the world after Brazil. While this is a debatable statement it certainly is a popular and wild carnival celebration.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival in kicks off the celebrations with electing a carnival queen in a competition that sees candidates wear elaborate costumes that can weigh up to around 200 kilos. For the entire week prior to the carnival there are 24/7 wild street parties and live music concerts that feature lots of Latin tunes. Celebrations end with burning of a giant sardine.

7. Notting Hill Carnival, UK

This carnival is a summer carnival taking place in the month of August. Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s largest street party with about two million people taking to the streets of London. It occurs on the Sunday and Monday of August Bank Holiday in the UK. Notting Hill Carnival was created to celebrate and embrace London’s Caribbean communities.

There is lots of drinking, dancing and socialising. The rum flows freely and people dance the day away to all the Caribbean music that pumps out from the 40 sound systems set up all over West London’s streets. You can also taste some of the delicious Caribbean cuisine like jerk chicken or goat curry.

8. Cologne Carnival, Germany

Carnival in Cologne is considered to be the ‘fifth season’. It officially begins on the 11/11 every year at 11:11am. Cologne Carnival is full of street parties, pub parties and parties that occur throughout the Cologne’s public squares, where the beer doesn’t stop flowing from morning until night.

The biggest day of carnival is Rose Monday which is when the three main carnival protagonists; a virgin, prince and a farmer, are marched through the streets of Cologne in a huge procession that features thousands of participants. Cologne Carnival is also known for the locals wearing extravagant costumes which are on par with what you would expect from Comicon.

Basel Fasnacht, Switzerland

Fasnacht is the name for carnival in many areas of Germany, Switzerland and Austria. There are numerous Fasnacht celebrations that occur all over that area of Europe but the biggest and most popular Fasnacht celebration is Basel Fasnacht.

What is unusual about Basel Fasnacht is that it starts one week after carnival. Basel Fasnacht features lots of parades and street parties. But the unique thing about it is the insane amounts of confetti. After the parade you may find yourself knee deep in confetti and that is because this town actually invented confetti!

Cádiz Carnival, Spain

Heading back to Spain, the Cadiz Carnival is one of the most renowned carnival celebrations in all of Europe. This carnival is a ten-day celebration of music and humour and was the only carnival in Spain that Franco couldn’t ban.

Cadiz Carnival features numerous street processions, live music concerts, comedy shows, theatre shows, puppet theatres and fireworks. It is known for everyone dressing up in the most amazing costumes that are more satirical then sexy in nature.

One of the main features of this carnival is the “Chirigotas”, satirical singing groups that make fun of current events and politicians. The groups spend most the year planning for carnival.

The Kandahar

Posted on by Al Slinn

We are very lucky to have one of Chamonix’s most exciting sport events, the world-renown Men’s Alpine Skiing World Cup “Kandahar”, happen just a few meters from our office in Les Houches.

When the Kandahar happens, it’s our tradition to join the crowds and cheer all athletes. So, that’s exactly what we did last week during the races on February 3rd and 4th. What a great way to celebrate this discipline we love!

Here’s a bit of history about the Kandahar, as explained on seechamonix.com.

The Kandahar race is one of the main sporting events in the Chamonix valley and it showcases Chamonix’s excellent skiing reputation. Created in 1928, the Kandahar was the first international alpine competition to combine downhill and slalom events. It plays host to the slalom and giant slalom, which are both spectacular disciplines to watch.

The race takes place on La Verte piste in Les Houches at the beginning of the year. Extensive work has been carried out on the lower part of the course over the past few years, in order to enlarge the arrival area and widen parts of the piste. These amendments mean that Chamonix will now be able to host world cup slalom events, too. 

The reputation of the Kandahar has attracted many of the big downhill competitors over the years. These include: James Couttet, Karl Schranz, Emile Allais, Ingemar Stenmark, André Aamodt, Alberto Tomba, and Bode Miller!

Après

Posted on by Al Slinn

With the ski season well under way, we have already taken our groups to ski resorts across Austria, Switzerland, and France. Our clients do love skiing, but we can confidently say the best part of every ski trip is the après-ski! The combination of post-ski adrenaline, excitement to be in the mountains, good music and Prosecco is just magical.

Today, we have decided to check the best après ski spots in Europe according to Condé Nast travel. We are happy to say we’ve got most of them covered, even this winter season!

Verbier

For: a high low mix of international glamour and beer-soaked live gigs.

Everyone knows the après is on par with the first-class skiing in Verbier. The Swiss resort has a ski-hard play-hard mentality that sees early risers maximise slope time before piling into a long lunch, which invariably rolls onto a rosé-fuelled afternoon at Bar Le Rouge. If pounding tables in ski boots to live music is on the cards, head to Le Mouton Noir, Le Farinet for its live music and retractable, fair weather roof, and seasonaire hotspot pub Montfort. Where you choose to après, it’s Verbier tradition to visit a hole-in-the-wall bakery en route home, soaking up the rosé with a pain au chocolat.

Chamonix

For: a metropolitan take on the mountains

This French resort’s après scene is as vast and varied as its terrain. Except for La Folie Douce on the lower green Brevent piste, après mostly takes place back in town or at the foot of the lifts. Skiers energised after a full day on the slopes spill onto Marmottons’ terrace for panachés and Indie performers. At the north end of town, Chambre Neuf is the classic, where cool beer, bro-beanies and live music coalesce in sticky, sweaty rapture. Just opposite, ski guides and real-deal mountaineers debrief the day’s adventures at Elevation 1904, which swiftly loosens up into bar mode.

St Anton

For: A boot-stomping belter of a party

With over 305 km of varied piste to carve and conquer, St Anton is a hard-and-fast snowglobe of fun for skiers. Krazy Kangaruh is St Anton’s après original where Schnitzels, beer and table dancing convene for a party that kicks off around 11am. Fellow mountain party cabin, MooseWirt, pumps out the Euro tunes for ski boots pounding the tables under a giant disco ball. Basecamp collects those unwilling to go home and get changed. Bodo’s is the spot for a clipped cow-bell spin on karaoke and cocktail-fuelled dancing.

Val Thorens

For: mountain cabaret and subterranean clubbing

As the highest resort in les Trois Vallées, Val Thorens’ snow cover is as sensational as its après. La Folie Douce enjoys a near-sacred status in this resort, despite its spin on the Val d’Isere original, where performers lift the terrace onto tables from their chalet balcony stage. The Brits descend on the Frog and Roastbeef for happy hour and pub grub, or join the locals at Rhum Box for an unbuttoned après. For full-throttle clubbing, Malaysia is the Alps’ biggest club, with world-famous DJs oiling the crowds until the early hours.

Livigno

For: city-grade nightlife without the VIP nonsense

High-altitude Livigno offers some of Europe’s best skiing. From a sleepy, Lombardy village in the 1950s, the resort now offers a cornucopia of post-ski frolicking. Yes, there’s the salopetted-and-booted après at Alegra with its crowd-pleasing tunes, or the circus-themed Statlet, both at the bottom of the black Carosello run. But Italians do things a little differently. Rather than a beer-soaked après, they break up a day’s skiing with a long lunch or a red wine and chicchetti pit stop, then a shower, snooze and suddenly it’s aperitivo hour. At precisely this time, Milky’s Aperitivo Bar switches on the charm with Bombardinos or Aperol spritz, while Tagliede après ski is more about the relaxed pizza and Peroni.

Val d’Isere

For: the original, hardcore après

Val d’Isere’s après scene remains predominantly British and invariably wild. By 2pm, ski helmets are typically tucked over chairs at the original La Folie Douce, at the top of La Daille gondola, where a saxophonist loosens the crowd and cabaret dancers lure in diners from La Fruitiere and la Cucina. Just above the Olympic gondola, Cocorico’s heated terraces host a more home-spun style of show, with the tabletop dancing to live music and a short slide home that can barely be categorised as skiing. The party typically moves from the slopes to the foot of the runs around 4pm.

St Moritz

For: how the other half après

St Moritz is essentially one chic century-long party laced in curious traditions and star-studded lore. Most tales emerging from years of refined revelry lead back to Badrutt’s Palace, St Moritz’s fairytale turreted hotel, which recently opened its own mountain club, Paradiso. Here, a mix of serious skiers and gondola-riding designer creatures sip Champagne to Euro hits. Sternbar Marguns has been around a little longer, with its sun trap terrace and famously louche bar 2,838 metres high. Schneebar Pirates on the Rocks is another less ritzy spot at Corviglia’s top station, whose live music and laid-back allure feel out of step with everything St Moritz stands for. Finaly, the Roo Bar at Hauser is a St Moritz classic, whose cellar dance floor mops up the après crowds who’ve made it home to change.

Kloster

For: the fireside drinks that just occasionally get spicy

Kloster’s après takes its cue from the resort’s clientele – discreet royals and old money eager to pelt down its 320km tangle of pistes for a Swiss hot chocolate or lunch at Wolf’s Den. Most après take place in the cosy, amber-lit Pellegrini Bar and the traditional chalet-style Alpina Bar by the station. A curious blend of traditional chalet and school disco, Casa Antica absorbs the revellers, with its pocket-sized dance floor and cosy booths.

What’s new in Val d’Isère

Posted on by Al Slinn

The ski season has just begun and we are currently delivering our first event in Val d’Isère, one of the most well-known ski resorts in France. But what’s new in val d’Isère this year? Well, a lot of has to do with sustainability! We were happy to discover that Val recently won the CIMES DURABLES (Sustainable Peaks) prize for its investment in sustainable development.

In this article on seevaldisere.com we found a few other interesting news about what’s coming to Val this winter.

On the slopes

Eco piste groomers
Val d’Isere are championing a more sustainable approach, so their 39 piste groomers will be powered by HVO fuel this winter. This fuel is 100% renewable using vegetable oil (no palm oil) and reduces their carbon emissions by 90%.  

In the resort

Speed-riding
Evolution 2 has invested in new specially designed tandem wings to offer tandem speed-riding half days. They also offer ice floating on Ouillette lake at an altitude of 2513 metres for a unique relaxing wellness boost.  

Treetop adventures
Val adventure has opened 4 different tree-top adventure courses for a great après-ski activity in the Rogoney forest. This course includes rope bridges, zip wires, nets, beams and walkways.

Hotels

First Club Med Exclusive Collection in the Alps! 
The Club Med in Val d’Isere is the first of the exclusive collections resorts to be located in the mountains. This completely redesigned resort is the epitome of luxury with 215 deluxe rooms and suites. The new decor reflects the village style using natural wood, stone and wool to provide authenticity.

Chalets

Hip Hideouts Chalets have 2 new chalets this winter. Situated in the village both chalets sleep 10. Chalet Cala, slopeside and Chalet Loup in Le Fornet. You can expect the same high quality modern hospitality concept in these chalets that Hip Hideout offer in their other serviced accommodation in the resort. 

Travel

Electric shuttle buses
Two new electric shuttle buses join the fleet of ValBuses this winter. The rest of the fleet of buses will this year change over to HVO biofuel. These changes represent a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. By 2025, 15 electric buses will run between the village and its hamlets.  

Restaurants

The Edelweiss, an established restaurant on the slopes, celebrates its 20th Anniversary this winter and is opening a second restaurant on the Mangard slope in Le Fornet, called Rene. This new adjoining restaurant pays tribute to a family member and is offering a completely different dining experience with an open kitchen, charcoal oven and a fully glazed dining room giving an incredible panoramic view across the valley.

New hotels of 2023

Posted on by Al Slinn

After 2 and a half years of closed borders, we are not surprised to see a bunch of new hotels opening around the world. 2023 will be the inaugurating year of some pretty spectacular properties. Needless to say, newly-opened hotels are one of our favorite topics! So, let’s take a look at Europe’s most-anticipated new hotels of 2023, according to this article by Vogue.

Le Grand Mazarin, Paris

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

Soon to arrive in the heart of the Marais is Le Grand Mazarin, a Martin Brudnizki-designed hotel that features 17th-century-inspired decor.

Rosewood, Munich 

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

The 132-room Rosewood Munich is set across two historic buildings: the first, the former State Bank of Bavaria. The second, the Palais Neuhaus-Preysing.

Hotel Vermelho, Melides, Portugal

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

Christan Louboutin has long considered Melides as his creative respite. So now, he wants others to consider it theirs, too. This spring, he will finally open up a 13-room boutique hotel in partnership with Marugal.

Son Bunyola Hotel, Mallorca

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

This summer, Richard Branson will open a new hotel in Mallorca, set upon an 810-acre estate in the Serra de Tramontana. That’s amazing news for us, as Mallorca is one of our top destinations for summer events.

Bulgari, Rome

Courtesy of Bulgari

It’s a homecoming for Bulgari with the opening of the Bulgari Rome, which will be the brand’s first hospitality project in the very city they were founded in.

The OWO, London 

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

The “Old War Office” in London, which acted as Churchill’s headquarters during World War II, gets a second life this year as Raffles’s first hotel in the United Kingdom. That’s pretty impressive stuff!

100 Princes Street, Edinburgh

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

100 Princes Street, whose name is a nod to their illustrious address on one of Edinburgh’s most famous streets, will have interiors inspired by Alexander McQueen.

La Fantaisie, Paris

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

La Fantaisie will open this spring in the heart of Paris’s 9th arrondissement. Its interiors are to be inspired by nature. That’s why ornate walls and ceilings are adorned with floral wallpaper, whereas guest rooms are swathed in soft greens and yellows.

Six Senses, Rome

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

For their new Rome hotel, Six Senses restored parts of a Roman 15th-century compound. Sounds like a property really worth a visit.

The Edition, Rome

The 26 MostAnticipated New Hotels of 2023

A short walk to the Trevi Fountain is the Rome Edition, which will be the first Italian property of Ian Schrager’s luxury hotel brand.