Other things to do in the winter:  fun for the whole family
 

Châtel and its surrounding area is an excellent resort for non-skiers, as there are lots of other activities to enjoy both on and off the snow.  

 

Outdoor activities

 

For those who want to take advantage of outdoors, its possible to do husky rides from a nearby husky ride centre down the road in La Chapelle d'Abondance (where you can either drive the sledge yourself, or let a guide take you).

 

Alternatively, you can have a go on the Fantasticable at Plaine Dranse - two zip lines each over 1km in length where you fly along at about 100 kmph!

 

Finally, there are 10km of cross-country trails located just below Chatel which zig-zag trough the woods and along the riverbank for those who like their skiing with rather less vertical drop.

 

Get out of the cold

 

Want to get out of the cold?  There are several places in Châtel that offer relaxing spa treatments (you know you deserve that massage, manicure or facial!), or you can head over to the lovely Forme d'O leisure complex which contains gorgeous indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a separate adults only pool, and sauna and steam room facilities.  

 

Retail therapy

 

Need to get that shopping fix?  Châtel has a charming selection of shops selling local produce and specialties, and there is also an lovely market on Wednesday mornings which is a great place to buy some of the local cheese and dried meats.

 

Après ski

 

Châtel's remains a traditional alpine village, so if you like your holidays to revolve around the après-ski or nightlife scene, then Val d'Isere, Verbier or St. Anton might be a better option.  That said, its still possible to have a great night out in Châtel, where there are plenty of good bars for swapping the day's stories over a glass or three, with special DJ nights and live bands in the winter and summer seasons.