Chatel

Châtel is a mountain village in Haute-Savoie, nestled in the Chablais massif and part of the extensive Portes du Soleil ski area. In winter, the slopes at Pré la Joux are a must, along with the Snow Park, popular with freestyle skiers and those looking for a bit of adrenaline on the features. A lunch stop at altitude is well worth it, with several mountain restaurants offering sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. In summer, the village becomes a fine base for walking, with numerous marked trails winding through alpine pastures and pine forests. The local food is well worth sampling too: traditional Savoyard dishes built around melted cheese, mountain cured meats and regional specialities make for a hearty meal after a day outdoors. For bread and pastries, it's best to head to the point chaud in the Linga hamlet rather than some of the bakeries in the village centre. A short trip to the Abondance valley is also worthwhile, where the Maison du Fromage explains the production and ageing of Abondance cheese, a signature product of the region. Châtel offers an authentic alpine setting with plenty to do throughout the year.