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SACHA AND FRANCINE, A LOVELY STORY

THEY TALk AbOuT THEIR FAVOuRITE pISTE

A DREAm wEDDINg uNDER THE SNOw

love

WINTER 2010 - 2011

m a g a z I N E

WINTER 2010 - 2011

m a g a z I N Em a g a z I N E

WINTER 2011 - 2012

as has NoW bEcomE aN uNdENIablE TRadITIoN IN mEgèvE, ThE chRIsTmas TREE dEcoRaTEd by sWaRovskI, WIll spaRklE WITh ITs cRysTal sTaRs IN ThE cENTRE of mEgèvE foR ThE ThIRd coNsEcuTIvE yEaR! a NaTuRal gIaNT of TEN mETREs hIgh aNd fIvE mETREs IN dIamETER, ENchaNTINgly adoRNEd, aNd ToWaRds Whom all REgaRds WIll bE TuRNEd oN ThE 3Rd dEcEmbER WhEN IT Is IllumINaTEd foR ThE fIRsT TImE ThIs sEasoN. a magIcal spEll ThaT WIll lasT all WINTER loNg. WE lovE IT!

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These days there is an enormous desire floating in the air to soothe our aching hearts, to hear tender words, to get back to the essential, to quite simply say that we love each other… And where could be better than Megève to do so? With its unique setting, its immaculate snow, its glittering lights and its exceptional ambiance, Megève inspires, makes hearts beat stronger. love is in the air everywhere in the streets… As if by enchantment stories of love have begun here for some, declared themselves or kindled the flame for others… And it’s not only couples who love each other… There are also the people and the places we love. So many passions to fulfil. So, yes! In the latest winter edition of the Megève Magazine, there will be love stories, in all their different forms and expressions, and on all the pages. And yes, we would like to tell you, you who are also in love with Megève, that our village loves you too!

The Megève Tourism Team.

official partnership.

editorial

B U R E A U D E M E G È V E

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contents

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08 ThE WoRld of mEgèvE10 lovE12 I lovE my skI slopE17 ThE spoRTs club’s 80Th aNNIvERsaRy20 foR lovE of EmIlE allaIs24 JumpINg INTo coTToN Wool28 lovE Was madE To bE shaREd36 a lEssoN IN ThE aRT of sEducTIoN38 poRTfolIo42 hE dId IT hIs Way44 gETTINg maRRIEd IN mEgèvE47 I lovE you Too 48 ThE lovE of bEauTIful ThINgs52 IN lovE To ThE TIp of ThEIR fINgERs

56 mEgèvE, a cRadlE of lovE sToRIEs60 puRE skIINg62 fITNEss aT hEaRT65 mouNTaIN WEaThER66 a gREaT dIvE ahEad71 lovE hoRsEs To bITs72 ThE gRaNd odyssEy73 sNoW golf cup74 dIaRy76 accEss

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ThE WoRld of mEgèvENews

lovE aT 1,754 mETERsAlfred leung chi kin and venus yiu yin ping from Hong kong had a somewhat unusual experience on the ski slopes of Megève. On arrival at the summit of Rochebrune they took part in a photo session. As the photographer was packing his equipment Alfred made a sign for him to wait a moment. He took a little red casket from his backpack before falling to his knees in front of his beloved… to ask for her hand in marriage. Then, looking at the eternal snow, he took her into his arms and they declared, “Next year when we are married we will come back for our honeymoon!” Decidedly on the romantic front the chinese have nothing to envy the French!

Béryl Ziegler

WElcomE To ThE uNIvERsE of sTEfaNo foREvER fRom mId-dEcEmbER To ThE bEgINNINg of apRIl, sTEfaNo foREvER Is back aT ThIs NIghT spoT ThaT has bEcomE a culT, ThE “RouTE du TéléphéRIquE”. A much awaited and dazzling return at the heart of a sublime atmosphere in a decor of entirely relooked baroque. Bright red and pearly silver for the warmth of these atypical premises where the widely varied entertainment includes artistic productions and fashion shows in the image of an art and dream seller. An excellent cabaret where we can have dinner and a drink, presenting artists from the “cirque du Soleil”, music hall numbers, and an ephemeral boutique upstairs selling objects from the world of Stefano Forever. On the programme this winter, numerous theme evenings including: The thousand and one nights of Stefano, The “cage aux Folles”, “les Femmes”, the Night of Stefano… and even more for unusual and unforgettable nights.

Johana Trossat

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facEbook lovEs mEgèvEhoW caN you fINd ouT WhaT’s goINg oN IN ThE vIllagE?

The answer : by connecting to facebook.megeve.com. With 30,000 friends and daily updates, there’s no doubt of the interest shown in the Megève page. Some find out about the quality of the snow, others announce their arrival thanks to the check-ins. you can also find out about the different village events or ideas for going out, look at photos, get the results of sports competitions and of course… comment on everything that’s circulating on the wall. There are also competition games with products to win. In a nutshell, Megève on Facebook is a real link, to visit without further delay!

Béryl Ziegler

fIvE sTaRs foR ThE alpagaJust one year after opening, it has become the third hotel in the village to be awarded five stars. With comfortable chalets in the heart of its hamlet, this luxurious 22-room hotel in an exceptional setting offers a very up market and personalised service. A magnificent hotel complex blending tradition and modernity and offering spacious contemporary areas of wood and stone. Each of the three chalets forming the hotel is independent yet harmoniously linked to the other chalets and annexed facilities : fitness, Turkish bath, spa, bar and restaurant. The concierge services, underground garages, shuttle busses, terraces and balconies underline the majesty and beauty of this site in one of nature’s most generous settings and so close to the village.www.lodgemontagnard.com

Johana Trossat

aN EvENINg NamEd dEsIREThE myThIc paRIsIaN cRazy hoRsE TRoupE Is puTTINg oN a shoW aT ThE coNgREss cENTRE, a fIRsT foR mEgèvE. The evening kicks off on the 3rd December after the illumination of the Swarovski christmas tree. Around 550 people are expected for this prestigious gala dinner with an orchestra, magic show and the dancers from the crazy Horse, paris. A cabaret that, since it was created, has celebrated the beauty and sensuality of women in an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. And despite being 60 years old, the most avant-garde of parisian cabarets continues to reinvent and inspire our imagination! Many thanks to Gilles chaussinand, who runs IScE consulting, the producer and organiser of this event.

Béryl Ziegler

lovE vERTIgo!The vertigo project is an imagined ephemeral concept, designed and developed by Jérôme Foucaud… facing the Mont-Blanc… in the heart of Megève’s skiing area… on the ski slopes of Mont d’Arbois… a concept that is reinvented and rethought every winter by the happy owner of the premises that have given him the opportunity to express his creativity and inventiveness… to astound and disconcert his guests of a day, or always… to enhance the different ambiances by creating areas with subtle and diverse atmospheres: gastronomic or “bistronomic” restaurants, a terrace, a lounge bar or a reading room… The vertigo project is an ephemeral concept that will cease to exist as we approach 2012, because the aim of this beautiful adventure is the opening of a five star hotel that will be a sign of the best and the unexpected! www.vertigo-hotel.com

Alexandre Mollard

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somETImEs IT’s lovE aT fIRsT sIghT. somETImEs IT dEEpENs WITh ThE passINg of ThE yEaRs. ofTEN, IT’s a loNg sToRy, ThaT lasTs, ThaT Is haNdEd doWN fRom faThER To soN aNd fRom moThER To daughTER… so maNy To lovE IT. ThEy comE fRom so maNy dIffERENT couNTRIEs. loyal, ThEy comE back yEaR afTER yEaR. IT Is NEvER faR fRom ThEIR hEaRTs, ThEy NEvER foRgET IT aNd EvEN lovE To Talk abouT IT. ITs TENdERNEss. ITs ambIaNcE. ITs RomaNTIcIsm. ITs bEauTy IN all foRms. ThEy aRE ThE pEoplE Who lovE mEgèvE!

love

dossIER

ski slope!I lovE my

IT’s a WEll-kNoWN facT ThaT ThosE Who lovE ThEm spEak ThE bEsT abouT ThEm! aNd To Talk abouT mEgèvE’s skI slopEs, WhaT bETTER ThaN To ask ThosE Who usE ThEm. The idea germinated when the GpS tracks of the slopes were put on-line: launch the contest for the best commentary of your favourite Megève ski slope. Around thirty people joined in the game giving a remarkable result.

“We were surprised by the creativity and quality of the commentaries!”, Jean-Marc Seigneur, Deputy Mayor for Tourism told us, before adding : “people have an emotional relationship with Megève. At heart, we all have our favourite slopes, but the funny thing is to see how each person is attached to a particular detail!”

The jury, who had a lot of difficulty in separating the winners, finally nominated the author of the commentary of the “Belle d’Arbois” piste. “Now there’s no chance that I will forget the name of this slope that I have always used but never really paid attention to until now”, recalls Jean-Marc Seigneur! And before reading the three finalists, what is your favourite slope?

Flora Bornstein

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l’Alpette, c’est un mot au goût d’enfance, charmant,The Alpette is a charming word with childhood flavours

That of a little name, light and tasty Short for deceptive flirtatiousness

The image of the Alps in miniatureWhereas in fact we discover a happy view there

Of the high mountains in their purest state

I always love climbing up thereIn the heat and effort of summer,

And in the breezesIn the heart of winter.

The arrival at the summit is well worth this effortAs the majestic Mont-Blanc

Waits for me like a gift in goldkindly and ever snow covered.

The piste decides, easy or hardDepending on age, confidence or style;

powdery, the snow left thereOn a hillside is much more risky.

Everywhere at mid-slope, in the open air,We slide, speed accelerates.

And I feel the shivers of freedomWhich tell me already at the bottom

That I must start all over again…!

Claire Grémont

The AlpetteRochebRune

As the name implies, it is a very special piste… like a pretty woman it has to be deserved and is characterised by its capacity to stand out from the other slopes; it can also be capricious and you can’t approach it whenever you want. But when you are lucky enough to find it dressed in all its white finery, it guarantees you some moments of pure pleasure and ecstasy. A pretty red, it is approached from the start ofthe slope by the pylons, a gentle start between two hedges of tall fir trees from which you can see the gentle slopes of the pré Rosset and véry in the distance. Then, once you are a little away from everything, it reveals itself completely,the gentle slope giving way to a more assertive character where there is no room for approximation. The succession of short turns in this wall offering a magnificent 180° view from the cote 2000 to the Aravis must be precise, neat and, in a

word, extremely careful. like a dance between you and the slope, your descent is made cheerfully to the exit of the forest, and just before you run out of breath, the rhythm slows down allowing you to join up with the great sloping ledge of the Mandarine piste that leads you gently to the depart of the Mont d’Arbois cable car. A slope with a varied profile, it also changes with the seasons, its southern orientation

offering the best snow at the beginning of the season, guaranteeing warmth and light all the time, but sadly refusing you in the spring when the greenery of the pastures takes the upper hand… you have understood, the “Belle d’Arbois” is a

unique piste offering all the pleasures of skiing and, as it often feels lonely and forlorn, the pleasure of being alone with it is even the greater.

Thomas

like a pretty woman it has to

be deserved.

The Belle d’ArboisMont d’ARbois

winneR of the contest

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The coqNow here’s one of my favourite ski runs on the Evasion Mont-Blanc skiing area. A real afternoon’s pleasure! After a rapid ascent with the christomet TSD6 (detachable, high-speed 6-seater chairlift), which allows us to admire the black Aigle below, we descend to the right at the summit of the chairlift. There, high up and in the sun, we take the time to contemplate the snow-covered croisse Baulet in the foreground with the Aravis range behind. We get started, peacefully carving this red by little flats and a few broken slopes. The speed

increases, the wind blows, the snow flies and we continue towards the Frasses. The slope forks off suddenly to the right and goes into the forest. A little schuss welcomes us, we build up speed, faster and faster, no time to brake… and the serious things begin as two long and wide walls succeed one another. Facing the slope and with tight little turns, the snow marches under our feet, no time to catch our breath on the short sloping ledge, and the second wall is already burning our thighs. A few more turns and we are at the bottom, at the foot of the christomet. We can catch our breath, and take just the time to admire our tracks before going up again! What happiness

Romain Dubreuil

There, high up in the sun, we take the time to contemplate the snow-covered

croisse Baulet in the foreground with the

Aravis range behind.

JAillet

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SKI LIFTS PRICESsKi liftsaltitude 1113 to 2350 m. cable cars and ski lifts will be open from 17th december. (may open 3rd december if enough snow.) cable cars and ski lifts at le Jaillet, princesse and la giettaz will close on 1st april, mont d’arbois on 9th april, 15th april for combloux, Rochebrune and the cote 2000 closure on 22th april. If you do not yet possess a rechargeable hands free pass sup-port, you will need to add €2 to the price of all these passes at the initial purchase. on following stays you will then be able to recharge it on www.skiamegeve.com

eVAsion Mont-blAnc sKiPAss (445km of slopes, 107 ski lifts.) valid on the following areas: Rochebrune, mont d‘arbois, Jaillet, cote 2000, la giettaz, combloux, st gervais, st Nicolas and les contamines. free meg-bus shuttle service within megève. 1 to 16 days skipass available.

adult child senior 1 day e 39 e 31 e 35,50

2 days e 74 e 59 e 67

6 days e 186,50 e 150 e 168

6 days «liberty»

e 210,50 e 168 e 190

MegèVe sKiPAss(325 km of slopes, 83 ski lifts.) valid on Rochebrune, cote 2000, mont d‘arbois, Jaillet, la giettaz, combloux, saint-gervais and saint-Nicolas. free meg-bus shuttle service within megève.

adult child senior

morning e 28 e23 e 26

afternoon e 28 e 23 e 26

day e 36 e 29 e 32

«PoRtes du Mont-blAnc» sKiPAss

(90km of slopes, 27 ski lifts.) valid on Jaillet, la giettaz and combloux. free meg-bus shuttle service within megève. 1 to 13 days skipass available.

adult child senior

afternoon (11h) e 25,50 e 20,00 e 23,70

afternoon (12h30) e 24,50 e 18,90 e 22,60

day e 27 e 20,60 e 25

6 days e 134,20 e 104,00 e 123,80

non-sKieR PAssvalid on the ski lifts open to walkers in megève, saint-gervais (Tmb not included) and combloux. 6 days and season for les contamines.1 day: e 16 6 days: e 65season: e 218

book online: www.skiamegeve.com contact@skiamegeve.comsEm megève ski lift company 220, route du Teléphérique Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 38 39

fax: +33 (0)4 50 21 31 39Jaillet area

Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 01 50

Rochebrune - cote 2000

Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 01 51mont d’arbois Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 22 07

princesse Tel. +33 (0)4 50 93 00 83

Insurance «carte neige» on sale at the sports club, the ski lifts offices and the ski schools.

photo compulsory for passes of 3 days or more (and also for non-skier pass)

REDUCTIONS

evasion - season skipass purchased before 15/11/11 or from 05/01/12

children: from 5 to 14 years old.

senior: over 60 years old

free passes for children under 5 and adults over 80 except free-hand card (€ 2) Written proof of age is required.

Family: - 10 % or the simultaneous purchase of at least 4 evasion skipasses, 6 consecutive days or more (except season) with a minimum of 2 children (under 18 years old).

This information might be modified.

mIdWEEkThis winter with the midweek package, give yourself amaximum of pleasure over 4 days. 4 days of unlimitedskiing on the 445km of ski runs which make up theEvasion mont-blanc skiing area. 4 days of relaxationwithout moderation in the swimming pool, sauna, hammam(minimum age 15 years old) and ice rink at megève sports centre. 4 nights (monday to Thursday inclusive) in a hotel or apartment. from € 234 /person in a 2 roomed apartment for 4 people.This exceptional offer is valid from 9th January to 3rd february 2012 and from 12th march 2012 to the end of winter season.

mEgèvE lIbERTya mountain of activities! 7 nights in a hotel, residence or apartment, 6 days of unlimited skiing on the Evasion mont blanc domain slopes and 6 daysof unlimited access to the swimming pool, ice rink, pingpong, fitness room (15 years old minimum) and medialibrary. from € 324 / person in a 2 roomed apartment for 4 people. This exceptional offer is valid from 7th January to 4th february 2012 and from 10th march 2012 to the end of winter season. more information page 67.

information and booking: +33 (0)4 50 21 29 52 - www.megeve-reservation.com

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SKI LIFTS PRICES A celebRAtion in its honouR

The sports club is organising a great celebration this year to mark the eightieth anniversary of the creation of the association. Thus, on tuesday 20th december the resort, and in particular the village square will come alive to a programme of festivities concocted by all the club’s members. The aim of the event is to honour the managers, coaches, members and all the top-level sportsmen and women who have been trained there. an event that holds many surprises in store.

Megève Sports club team 1952-1953

AMbAssAdoRs “en Piste”! perhaps you have already run into them on megève’s skiingarea or maybe they have already given you their preciousassistance. They are the ambassadors; a team of 50 volunteers that was established in 2000, and present in all the resort’s strategic points. armed with kindness and a sense of humour they inform, guide and advise skiers about the quality of the snow cover and the different events andentertainment that create a certain rhythm, highlighting theseason. attentive to even the slightest details, they help tomake your day’s skiing even more pleasurable. www.megeve-ambassadeurs.com

WITh 14 sEcTIoNs, NEaRly oNE ThousaNd mEmbERs aNd aRouNd ThIRTy coachEs, mEgèvE’s spoRTs club Is IN ExcEllENT hEalTh dEspITE ITs gREaT agE. WE look back To a hIsToRy of aRdENT spoRTs lovERs.

The birth of the Sports club dates back to the beginning of the 1920s. At that time, Megève was just starting its development as a great ski and tourist resort. A handful of keen sportsmen and women decided to create an organisation called the “Megève Sports club”, gaining membership of the French Winter Sports and Skiing Federations and therefore able to organise sporting competitions. Then, on the 17th July 1931, the association made a first declaration at the sub-prefecture of Bonneville. Its objective was to promote the practice and development of physical and sports education, and also military preparation, particularly for Megève’s youngsters. As a coach, competition organiser and events partner, the Sports club was then to experience a fabulous development, based around winter and summer sports. This old, local institution well deserves a beautiful homage.

Evelyne Périnet Marquet

is 80!ThE spoRTs club

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sKi MAP

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Émile Allais and Jean-claude killy

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compETITIoN

For love of émIlE allaIs

ThERE aRE 100 Ways To WIsh émIlE allaIs a happy bIRThday. hERE aRE hEIghT, addREssEd To hIm by hEIghT pERsoNalITIEs closEly coNNEcTEd To ThE REsoRT’s coNTEmpoRaRy hIsToRy. EvERy oNE of ThEm has a dIREcT lINk WITh ThE advENTuRE of TouRIsm aNd skIINg aNd has had a moRE oR lEss closE coNTacT WITh ThE champIoN.

« My Émile, I say “my”, how pretentious! As you yourself know, you belong to no one. On the other hand, you have always been the man who knows how to give and assuredly I, we, can only strive to be like you.»

Pierre Margara

« I would like to thank Émile Allais for all that he has done, and for the totality of his works. He launched the French skiing method, contributed to its development and promoted its image.»

Maxime Tissot

«Émile Allais founded the profession of ski patrol and maintenance man. Without him this profession would not exist. He also founded the profession of ski instructor. My grandfather, clovis Duvillard has skied with him. »

Nicolas Chambet

« It wasn’t until quite late that I learnt of my Dad’s exceptional career. Until that time, he was my hero simply because of his qualities as a father, his deep kindness, patience, his ability to listen, his broadmindedness and so many other reasons.»

Karen Allais

«Enthusiasm, the spirit of initiative and innovation have animated each of our encounters.»

Stéphane Grosset

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« For me Émile will always be the living legend of the first tracks, the first ski slopes and the first medals. A real pioneer in the white gold rush! I never get tired of hearing the story of his life and century. Thank you Émile, thanks for everything »

Marc Béchet

« From the first time I met Émile, I keep the memory of a discreet and reserved man who loves to share his experiences.But what impressed me the most is his long-term vision of the future of Megève. »

Marithé Crozet

« Dad is the champion of dads! you have given me so much time, so much love. you have given me a love of skiing, the sea, nature, and the ability to enjoy the simple things in life. But also to have dreams and to see a project through right to the end. Thanks Daddy. Now, you’ll have to keep doing all that with your grandchildren.»

Kathleen Allais

Émile Allais and his family

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season after season the “megève Team” reflects the successes of mègevan sportsmen and women in important competitions and the excellence of the training offered by the sports club. formerly reserved for snow sports, the group is now open to megèvans who ride on two wheels, who fly or run, and a “promising youngsters” team now puts those whose results are encouraging for future performances into the spotlight. Today the team is the embodiment of the visible part of the resort’s sports know-how. and it is filling out, which can only be a good sign! for all that, the admission and the “mission” are never the same for any two people. “Within the megève Team we are very demanding in terms of selection criteria because sportspeople who take part in the World or European cups are involved. The

“promising youngsters” team operates more to encourage those youngsters present who are likely to represent megève in the coming years”, sums up lionel burille, deputy mayor for sport. slalom skier maxime Tissot, member of the Team since 2007, joined the top 30 in the World rankings in his discipline last season. used to communicating about the resort, he underlines the direct link between his achievement and the resort. “megève is always behind us and supporting us”. a commission whose members are from the town council and the sports club study the entrance applications, the first criterion being membership of the club. This year maxime Tissot, anthony benna, arnaud burille and albert bedouet have been selected to take part in the World cup.

Pascal Arvin-Bérod

mEgèvE TEamachIEvEmENT aNd pRomIsEs

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skI

woRld cuP fReestYle finAlduAl Moguls sKi sunday 18th march 2012

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INTo coTToN Wool

Jumping Would you lovE To TRy skI JumpINg buT aRE afRaId of huRTINg youRsElf? ThE bIg aIR bag WIll lENd you WINgs!

located at the top of the petit Rochebrune chairlift, this inflatable mattress of eight by eleven meters has been specially designed for ski jumpers’ landings. With it everything is possible, even the craziest acrobatic figures! Whether you are a beginner or experienced, skier or snowboarder, this structure is ideal for performing jumps in complete security without worrying about the landing. you just have to build up speed and take off from a two-meter high ski jump on a 55°slope… and let yourself be projected seven meters away. The key being: guaranteed thrills and exceptional performances. “Thanks to the Big Air Bag, I have been able to do figures like the back flip without hurting myself”, testifies a skier who has become a big fan. And he’s not the only one…

“The Big Air Bag was put into service for the first time last winter. It was a great success with more than 10,000 jumps recorded”, says Stéphane Grosset, who firmly believes that this project would never have seen the light of day without the active participation of ludovic Morand, Technical Director of the Rochebrune ESF. Incorporated into a zone dedicated to freestylers near the Waidzai park and the skier cross, this mattress bearing the colours of coca-cola Zero, is a great hit with teenagers and adults looking for intense sensations. Everyone can jump at their own rhythm under the watchful eye of a technician and instructor specialising in free-style. “They are there to ensure that the module is working well and give optimal advice to users”, Stéphane Grosset informs us. All this in a relaxed atmosphere, as here we jump to music.

Nevertheless, don’t be too relaxed: a helmet and dorsal protection are obligatory to be admitted to the module.

Just spend a few minutes near the Big Air Bag to feel how it triggers off your emotions: jump higher and further still and with more rotations in the air! And

because it would be a shame to miss out on such a spectacle, this year the Big Air Bag has decided to lend itself to demonstrations. All those who have trained during the

day can come back in the evening and perform their favourite tricks to thunderous applause. And lastly a word of advice for fans: Megève’s Big Air Bag has a spot on the Facebook social network. Don’t hesitate to come and post your most extreme videos. And don’t forget to “like” the page. Because the Big Air Bag is loved without counting the cost!

Béryl Ziegler

Guaranteed sensations and exceptional performances.

PRActicAl infoRMAtionmodule accessible from 12 years. for younger children, a parental responsibility discharge is required.Tickets can be obtained on the spot.price : €10 for 2 hoursopening timesoutside french school holidays: every Wednesday, saturday and sunday (from 1pm to 3pm).during french school holidays: every day from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 00 97

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sNoW spoRTs schoolssKi AgencYAt MegèVean Excellence ski school.professional skiers in megève.private lessons for all standards.personalised upmarket service.your lessons in french, English or spanish.Information and reservations online at:www.agencedeski-megeve.commobile: +33 (0)6 99 18 52 00

fRench sKi schoolWhatever your ski style or your chosendiscipline, let the professionals of theEsf (french ski school) share their skillsand pleasure of the snow with you. youwill find your feet from the first day withprivate lessons (by the hour or the day,given in french, English, spanish, germanand Italian) or group lessons. With theeasiest access to the ski slopes: discoverthe domain, with unattainable perfectionand conviviality as a bonus. please bookyour lessons on line:www.megeve-ski.com

esf - Maison de la Montagne176, rue de la posteTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 00 97www.megeve-ski.comReservation recommended.

All seAson longPrivate lessons1 or 2 people - 1 hour: €42from 3 to 5 people - 1 hour: €54from 1 to 5 people - The day: €350handiskimono-ski or bi-ski, 2 hours minimum:€42/hr.material provided by Esf, 3 instructorsavailable.Reservation recommended.

gRouP lessonschRistMAs And winteRschool holidAYschristmas (17/12/11 to 03/01/12)and Winter (11/02/12 to 12/03/12)Reservation recommended.ADUlTS from 13 years oldAlpine skiing2 ½ hrs/day for 5 mornings: €149caboche only2 ½ hrs/day for 6 afternoons: €149lessons in English2 ½ hrs/day for 5 mornings: €149noRdic sKiing at the mont d’arbois2 ½ hrs/day for 5 mornings: €149ChIlDREN (from beginners to Etoiled‘orlevel)from 3 to 5 years old5 mornings or 6 afternoons Esf princesse/Jaillet/Rochebrune2 h/day: €128From 5 to 12 years old2 ½ hrs/day for 5 mornings: €1382 ½ hrs/day for 6 afternoons: €138

tRAining couRsesIntroduction to competition«Etoile d’or» mini level3 ½ hrs/day for 6 morningsor 6 afternoons: €210Day racing at the caboche«flèche de bronze» mini levelfrom 10 years old6 days (9.30am - 5pm): €420Gold competition at the caboche«flèche de vermeil» mini levelfrom 14 years old6 afternoons (1.30pm - 5pm): €219freeski & teenager ski at the mont d’arbois «flèche d’argent» mini level from 14 years old4 half-days + 1 day: €219Snowboard from 10 years old6 lessons of 2 ½ hrs/day: €1976 lessons of 3 ½ hrs /day*: €275*snowboard 3 and expert

esf cAboche onlYgRouP lessons out offRench school holidAYPeRiod And eAsteRholidAYs(from 04/01/12 to 10/02/12 and from13/03/12 to the end of the ski season)Reservation Recommended.Princesseonly group lessons week endfrom beginners to «Etoile d‘or» levelfor up to eight pupils2 half-days of 3 hrs/day: €68Adults from 13 years oldAlpine skiing3 hrs/day for 5 mornings: €149nordic skiing at the mont d’arbois3 hrs/day for 5 mornings: €149snowboard at the caboche5 lessons of 3 hrs/day each: €149childRen (from beginners to Etoiled‘or level)from 3 to under 5 years old2 hrs/day for 5 mornings: €128from 5 to 12 years old3 hrs/day for 5 mornings: €138week end competition«flèche de bronze» mini levelfrom 10 years old2 half-days: €85timed testsWith ski open ranking, evaluation of yourexact skiing level.Registration for 1 timed test: €125 timed tests: €38

inteRnAtionAl sKi schoola team of qualified and multilingualprofessionals who will do their utmost tosatisfy your requirements. Tailored quality:group lessons of 8 children maximum, forbeginners to advanced skiers (possibility ofcompetitions), private lessons or days uponrequest, at megève or elsewhere..., valléeblanche, heliski, hikes. a professionalwarm and receptive team.

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with Megève esi learn at your own pace:

Private ski instructor:Intense technique - 1 hpersonalized technique - 2 hpersonalized technique with the possibility of discovering the local ski area - 3 hInstruction at your own pace to suit yourwishes, morning or afternoon, 4 h a full day 100% at your service, all yourrequirements met from the moment youstep outside your residence: ski passes,equipment, restaurant bookings, routes,etc…

group lessons, children:Tailor-made for up to eight pupils.EsI «p’tits groupes»: mouse (beginners),crystal, bronze crystal, silver crystal, goldcrystal, 10 am - 12.30 pm or 2.30 pm -5pm. (including test and medals).

group lessons, teenagersand pre-teenagers:Teenagers and pre-teenagerskid race and kid ride coursesone day and half-day teenagecompetition coursefree-ride coursefrom monday to friday, from 10 amto 1 pm(Tests, medal, loan of jacket and meal)

ski adventureski touring (seal skin)day or raid.off-piste skiing: for beginners andadvanced in powder snow.discovery of the skiing areas in andaround megève:diamant area, chamonix, flaine, The gateway to the sun…White valleyheliski: Italy, switzerland and canada.ski guiding/ski excursion

seminarscompany groups and leisureorganisation of races timed with astopwatch.

EsI mEgEvE237, rue de la posteTel: +33 (0)4 50 58 78 88www.esimegeve.com

RéVolution glisseskI & sNoWboaRd a radical new combination of air and snow sports in a school with a difference.a group of free lance, english-speaking instructors and guides, all fully qualified with national certification (bEEs),who offer you a five-star service, in a broad range of activities.see for yourself. a unique and flexible approach for unique experiences.a main objective :- quality, enjoyment and safety for young and old alike.

- With our guides, discover the best ski-resorts…

- a fREE dvd ! you are filmed as you learn so that you can see first hand your own progress and your children’s

This dvd will leave you an unforgettable souvenir of your holidays.- private lessons from 6 years ski and 8 years snowboard

Tel. +33 (0)6 67 60 89 64into@revolutionglisse.com www.revolutionglisse.com

fReeRide schoolski instructors and mountain guides.private lessons for all levels.adults and children from 3 years old.personalised upmarket service.off piste skiing, heliski, vallée blanche...champfort sport188, Route Edmond de Rothschildmobile: +33 (0)6 80 30 68 98www.ecolefreeride-megeve.

sKi PRos MegèVevery select ski and snow sports school.qualified independent american, frenchand british instructors. Tuition in English orfrench. private lessons, company groups,for all levels, of any age to fit everyone.lessons confirmed without delay! yourstarting point for «skiing better andmore».mobile: +33 (0)6 81 61 06 15 www.skiprosmegeve.com

suMMitssnowboard & ski schoolsummits is an international ski school(micro structure).private lessons for all standards, adultsand children from 4 years old.quality group lessons for children andadults, of 6 persons maximum, all levels.handiski: lessons for the disabled.crosscountry skiing - off-piste skiingski touring - vallée blanche«ski concept» shopImpasse de la Telécabine du chamoisTel: +33 (0)4 50 93 35 21mobile: +33 (0)6 84 01 26 00www.summits.fr

for information:www.telemarkmegeve.com ou s.seigneur@telemarkmegeve.com

AssociAtion téléMARK MegèVe snowshoes: 1/2 day, day and

nocturnal; discovery of a natural environment, of wildlife and landscapes. from 10 years. glacier snowshoeing: a day outing, discovery of the “mer de glace” glacier and the “col de géant” (mountainpass). ski excursion: 1/2 day or day; discovery of the region’s skiing areas: megève, “Espace diamant”, chamonix, the grand massif, the aravis, flaine and courmayeur.off-piste skiing: initiation by the 1/2 day and perfection by the day at megève, Espace diamant, chamonix, the aravis, flaine, and courmayeur.the Vallée blanche and its variations: day excursion, the petit Envers, the Rognon, the Envers du plan, the real vallée blanche, the grand Envers.

ski touring: excursions of a 1/2 day, day or several days with nights in a mountain refuge. ice falls: initiation by the 1/2 day in the contamines and by the day in othe nearby sites (megève, Notre dame de bellecombe, chamonix).winter Mountaineering: arête des cosmiques, petite verte, Tour Ronde.heliski: Italy, switzerland and canada.climbing and tyrolean: group sessions for children and adults of 1h 30 or individual lessons.Paragliding: 1/2 day or day initiation.

maison de la montagne76, rue a. martinTél. +33 (0)4 50 21 55 11www.guides-megeve.com

MountAin guides

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IN mEgèvE WE lovE shaRINg ThE good TImEs. moRE aNd moRE of Today’s gRaNdpaRENTs aRE TakINg ThEIR gRaNdchIldREN To WINTER spoRTs. mEgèvE Is sTIll ThE IdEal holIday dEsTINaTIoN, havINg so maNy aNd vaRIEd acTIvITIEs pRoposEd foR youNgsTERs.

lovE Was madE

to be shared

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Grandparents and grandchildren have never been as close as they are today. It seems that the generation gap is progressively disappearing. And so the hierarchic relationships that prevailed thirty years ago have given way to more loving and harmonious relationships. We must admit however that today’s senior citizens are dynamic in all situations and are very young at heart. Qualities that allow them to create strong and loving ties with their grandchildren. Many of today’s grandparents enjoy sharing their free time with this new generation of grandchildren thirsty for time and affection. less strict, more available and more tuned in to their needs, grandparents are taking more and more place in their grandchildren’s lives. And for the greatest happiness of all concerned!

fRaNçoIsE aNd JacquEs, gRaNdpaRENTs of ThIbaud, 9, maRINE 8 aNd Emma, 5.Françoise and Jacques, in their early sixties, both active and sporty, have been skiing in Megève for years. A love that they hope to pass down to their grandchildren when they join them for the winter holidays. With 445km of sign posted and groomed slopes Megève is a fabulous playground for adults and children alike. While the youngest is discovering the joys of snow and

sliding at the “piou piou” club, the older brother and sister are having skiing lessons with the ESF to attain their 2nd and 3rd stars. But in the afternoon they will devour the slopes with their grandparents. A moment of greatcomplicity between the two generations, but also the opportunity for the children to perfect their skiing by listening to the sound advice of their grandparents. Some afternoons, the children alternate with other equally fun activities. Thibaud loves climbing on the artificial wall at the Sports centre, and also biathlon that he has recently discovered with his friends. He is really happy to go to the beginners’ lesson at the livraz. Marine prefers to relax with her grandmother and little sister at the heated

indoor swimming pool. But their greatest pleasure is to go together to the ice rink to round off the day in beauty. With such dynamic grandparents the children never have time to be bored during their holidays.

daNIEllE aNd RENé, gRaNdpaRENTs of Tom, 12 aNd hugo, 11.Danielle and René, both nature lovers, devote their retirement to hiking, an activity they do both in summer and winter. Quite naturally they take their grandchildren with them as often as possible to enlighten them about the mountain fauna and flora. In Megève there is no shortage of ideas for hiking outings. In winter it is with cross-country skiing that they prefer to cover the mountains at their own rhythm on the tracks of the livraz-cote 2000 site. The children have even had lessons to master the skating technique perfectly. last year they also loved the special family snowshoeing outing organised by the Mountain Guides. This accompanied and commentated excursion allowed them to have a better understanding of the way of life of wild animals in the mountains. But their favourite activity is the dog and sleigh ride on the heights of Megève; even more so because they learned to drive the dog teams themselves under the

musher’s guidance. A wonderful adventure! The children’s grandparents have also enlightened them about the mountain farmers’ way of life. They visited a farm in Megève. Not simply another experience for these little citizens

to discover goats, sheep, kids… but also to taste the farm produce. To make the visit even more fun, they were even taken there by horse and carriage. Once more the children leave Megève with their heads full of wonderful memories.

chaNTal aNd bERNaRd, gRaNdpaRENTs of claRa, 8 aNd maNoN, 6.Newly retired, chantal and Bernard have decided to share the good times in life with their granddaughters. When they were still working

Françoise and Jacques have been skiing

in Megève for years. A love that they hope to pass down to their grandchildren.

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they were not able to spend much time with their own children. But today they have every intention of making up for that! These grandparents especially love cultural and artistic activities. So they often take their granddaughters to the media library to choose the books that they will read together. The girls love the story timefor children every Wednesday morning at the youth section. They also love going to the creative workshops. last time, they made little objects such as pencil cases and christmas tree decorations with re-cycled cardboard and

plastic. Their grandparents, history lovers, have also taken them to the Haut val d’Arly museum to explain how the region’s farmers lived in the

19th century. A visit that is both fun and educational. But the girls’ favourite outing must be going to the cinema where they love watching cartoons with their grandparents, giving the latter the

opportunity to return to their own childhood for a few moments.

Stéphanie Pioud

chantal and Bernard have decided to share the good times in life

with their granddaughters.

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chIldREN’s

club Piou-Piou«fun school» for children over 3 to 5 years old, introduction to skiing with the Esf (french ski school) ski instructors. snow garden with border-cross and magiccarpet. day, half day and week-ends (with or without meal).Reservation in advance is essential.(out of winter season)Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 00 97www.megeve-ski.com

la cabochEaccess from the centre of the village by the chamois’ gondola.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 58 97 65(from the 15th of december)

moNT d’aRboIsat the bottom of the mt d’arbois’ cable car.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 65 86

Meg’AccueilsKi KindeRgARdenAnd dAY nuRseRY.sports, artistic or handicraftactivities.Initiation to skiing through games.children are taken to the collective lessonsfrom 3 years old. (school holidays).day or half day, with or without meal.Reservation is requirednursery «les p’tites frimousses»from 12 months to 3 years old.at the mont d’arbois’ cable carTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 65 86(from the 17th of december)Activity centre for the 3 to12 years old.located next to the sport centre.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 58 77 84megaccueil.enfance@megeve.fr

ActiVitiesfor the 5 to 11 years old duringschool holidays. Exploring different materials and colours, and around varied and original themes, children can create their own unique objects.by reservation only:Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 59 09megaccueil.activites@megeve.fr

spoRTsMountAin guides’officeRock climbing, initiation snowshoe trek onTuesday afternoons, «little laplanders»outing on Thursday afternoons duringschool holidays.from 8 years oldmaison de la montagneTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 55 11www.guides-megeve.com

dog sleddingAdVentuResa unique adventure in family

discover the sport - 1h:€40 for kids of 8 to 12 years old.€30 for kids of 3 to 8 years old.free for children under 3 years old.an adult must come with the child.(for 2 children: prices of a child under8 years old.)basic principles of dogsled driving 1/2 day:€68 for children of 8 to 12 years old.more information and booking only bymailat:montduvillard@aol.comgift vouchers are availableon www.montduvillardnord.comTel/fax: +33 (0)4 50 21 37 03

sKi schoolsIndividual or group lessons -helmets required.see pages: 26-27.

PAintbAllan unforgettable experience! from 8 years old 2 paintball sites in the middle of the cote 2000 forest with 7 different game scenarios for 1 to 2 hrs of fun. special equipment from 8 to 12 years old.admission, supervision and equipment:€25/pers. with 100 units.for an extra 100: €5 and €15 for 400.open every day for reservation from 9 am to 10 pm.capacity of 1 to 40 persons.

group or seminary prices: please ask us.paintball experiencejust before the altiport take the roadon the right Route de la cote 2000(at the foot of the airfield)mobile: +33 (0)6 09 81 31 17www.paintballexperience.net

sPoRts And congResscentReTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 15 71

open air ice rinkAnimations for childrenTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 23 77

olympic ice rink60m x 30mmusical animations, late evening openings.skating lessons with laurence austinmobile: +33 (0)6 61 15 83 49

swimming poolsheated indoor pool of 25 x 12,50 m.heated indoor children’s pool of12,50 x 12,50 m.swimming lessonsmeg’ accueilTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 59 09

diving mobile: +33 (0)6 83 73 96 81

climbing wallartificial structure of more than 200 m2.Equipment not provided.access exclusively for those accompaniedby a guide.

indoor tennis courtfree for children under 5 years old(also for the swimming pool andthe ice rinks)

AdVentuRe PARKa multitude of activities in the heart of theforest, climb up high, swing from tree totree and put your body and courage to the test in total security.from 5 to 10 years old special kids level.please book in advance.junior: €17 children: €10.cote 2000 aventuremobile: +33 (0)6 76 29 71 04www.cote2000aventure.com

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fAMille Plusmegève is labeled «mountainfamily plus» alabel that is given to resorts that privilege a warm welcome and family activities.

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sKi liftsbeginners pass for the day:• Mont d’Arbois: ................................€9petit vorassetskilifts and magic carpet ofsnow garden.• Princesse: .......................................€7petit bois skilift.• Jaillet:.............................................€6les pattesskilift and prellet chairlift.• Rochebrune:............................. .€11,50petit Rochebrune, grands champs chairlifts,cabochon, moutely, schuss skilifts andaccess by the chamois and Rocharbois’cable cars.• Free magic carpet for beginners atRochebrune, la princesse, le Jaillet andsnow garden.If you do not yet possess a rechargeable hands free pass support, you will need to add €2 to the price of all these passes at the initial purchase. on following stays you will then be able to recharge it on www.skiamegeve.com

good ideAs foR fAMiliesfor the skipasses «Evasion mont blanc» and «Jaillet/combloux/la giettaz/cordon»• -10% for the simultaneous purchase of atleast 4 Evasion skipasses, for 6 consecutivedays or more (except season) with a minimum of 2 children (under 18 years old*)• Free passes for children under 5*• Reductions for 5 to 14 years old* kids(*proof of age required)

snow PARK And hAlfPiPeat mont Joux and le Jaillet.

wAidzAi PARKunder grandschamps chairlift, attractivemodules: whoops, pyramids,up-turnedbends…

«lA liVRAz» cRosscountRY sKiing tRAcKsopen every day from 9am to 5pm.free access by ski bus.• Cross-country skiing: free for childrenunder 6, with easy beginners loop.• Fun beginners’ trail: Snow parks withmoguls, ski jumps, upturned bends,from 4 years old.• Secured tobogganing area,free for children.• Trekking by foot or with snowshoes.• Snack bar and picnic area.Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 47 52

otheR tobogAningAReAspré saint amour, under 6 years old.areas cote 2000 and caboche, from 6 years old.

culTuRE aNd lEIsuRElAnguAge couRsesfor 7 to 16 years old.With or without accommodation.language lessons with ski or surf.cIfEl Jeunes diplomatesTel: +33 (0)4 79 37 19 78www.cifel.fr

the Youth section in the MultiMediA libRARYThe youth section of the media library offers its young visitors a wide selection of comic books, storybooks, dvds and cds… To read on the spot or to borrow (afterregistration). a special “baby readers” area is open to families where tiny totsaccompanied by their parents can discoverstories, fairy tales nursery rhymes and songs in a cheerful and specially designedenvironment. different shows andamusements are also proposed (see diary).story time: every Wednesday from 10.30 to 11.30 am for children aged 4 and over.free, no registration necessary.sport and congress centreTel: +33 (0)4 50 91 57 70http://mediatheque.megeve.fr

hAut VAl d’ARlY MuseuMThe heritage discovery in an old farmhouse.children: €2.80 (free for kids under6 years old). accompanying notebook for 7-10 years old.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 91 81 00museehautvaldarly.free.fr

seRVicesbaby changing tables, picnic areas,pushchairs and baby carrier hire:Information at megève Tourism.document «children’s paradise» available at megève Tourism.

fAMilY PAcKAgefrom 7th January to 4th february 2012 and from 10th march to the end of the season. your holiday in a 2 room apartment for 4 persons from €1175* Including: ski passes for 6 days, ski lessons for the children, 2 megève pass (info. page 67).* 2 adults and 2 children under 5 years old.

information and booking : www.megeve-reservation.com

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IdEa N° 1 suggEsT a RIdE IN ThE lIghT of ThE sIlvERy mooNNot at Maubeuge Horse Show, but through Megève’s village centre! Snuggled together in a pretty sleigh with a soft and cosy blanket around your shoulders, let yourselves be cradled by the rhythmical trotting of the horses while you admire the starry sky. Apart from the village itself, you can also enjoy a beautiful ride on the heights facing the Mont Blanc. There are several itineraries to choose from depending on your desires. And to make the moment even more enchanting, why not sip a glass of champagne along the ride. What better way could there be to begin the evening?

IdEa N° 2 aRousE ThEIR TasTE budsTo awaken your loved one’s taste buds invite them to one of the many village restaurants. To suit your budget and chosen ambiance, you may opt for a refined gastronomic dinner, or typically Savoyard cuisine in a more rustic setting. It doesn’t matter where you decide to go, magic is always in the air in Megève. Even more so if you choose an altitude restaurant that offers an enchanting wonderland vista over the illuminated village.

IdEa N° 3 a momENT of TogEThERNEssFor even more intimacy, you can simply offer yourselves a candle-lit dinner at home, by the fireside. A pretty table will have been set, decorated with taste. As for the meal itself, two options are possible. Astound your guest by preparing a romantic dinner yourself after having had cooking lessons with one of Megève’s great chefs. If you are allergic to the oven however, you can call in a caterer and enjoy the best vintages from one of the village’s wine cellars. The evening is guaranteed to be a success.

IdEa N° 4 daNcE ThE NIghT aWayBring the evening to a perfect ending over a drink, either in a fashionable and lively night bar, or in the lounge of a luxurious hotel if you are looking for a quieter, cosier ambiance. For a wild and frenzied night however, head for the discotheque, where you can beat to the sounds of music on the dance floor until the small hours. With such a programme, you will without a doubt capture your valentine’s heart.

Stéphanie Pioud

gasTRoNomy

mEgèvE offERs WIThouT doubT ThE mosT RomaNTIc sETTINg possIblE foR a saINT valENTINE’s EvENINg. bETWEEN a sTRoll uNdER a sTaRRy NIghT sky aNd a caNdlE-lIT dINNER, youR lovEd oNE WIll NoT bE ablE To REsIsT youR chaRms! hERE aRE a fEW suggEsTIoNs To makE a RomaNTIc EvENINg a REal succEss.

a magIcal

Saintvalentine’s

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goINg ouT

cAsino50 slot machines.game tables: English roulettes,black jack, Texas hold’em poker.open from 11 am.access to the machines with Idcompulsory (free).purple lounge live music & bar.dinner with a concert.open from 6.30 pm to 0.30 amPalo Alto night club199, rue charles feigeTel: +33 (0)4 50 93 01 83www.casino-megeve.comwww.palo-alto.fr

cineMAsPanoramic - 3 dchemin des RoseauxTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 29 34Rochebrune 1 and 2Rue charles feigeTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 03 52programs:Tel: +33 (0) 892 687 333

bARs And clubsle bar des Alpes Rue de la posteTél. +33 (0)4 50 93 08 15le bar saint PaulImpasse saint paulTél. +33 (0)4 50 91 93 03la calècheplace de l’égliseTél. +33 (0)4 50 58 99 13le cocoon clubRoute Edmond de RothschildTél. +33 (0)4 50 21 09 91le georgeshôtel mont-blancTél. +33 (0)4 50 21 20 02le Kitschen café130, route Edmond deRothschildTél. +33 (0)4 50 21 69 33le Palo AltoRue charles feigeTél. +33 (0)4 50 91 82 58le white Pearl30, rue ambroise martinTél. +33 (0)4 50 58 71 72le bar des trappeurshôtel lodge parkTél. +33 (0)4 50 93 05 03M le vin50, rue saint françoisTél. +33 (0)4 50 34 41 49stefano foreverallée du sporting de RochebruneTél. +33 (0)4 50 93 39 18

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cookINg lEssoNsflocons de sel: cooking lessons with Emmanuel Renaut, 2-star michelin. Two or three recipes will be presented and prepared during each session, according to ideas suggested by participants. €60 (2 h 30). Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 49 99 www.floconsdesel.com

the “Atelier” at the fermes de Marie: is the dream place to prepare a variety of recipeswith the chef: the “pure altitude” and “Energyand vitality” recipes. an inventive, healthy andwell-balanced cuisine, blending pleasure andhealthy eating and where the local seasonal products are the stars. €100 per person (including 2 hours of kitchen workshop andlunch). Tel : +33 (0)4 50 93 03 10www.sibuethotels-spa.com

Megève, delicious and comfortable alpesTraditional restaurants or exceptional tables:find the best addresses of megève in the champérard, the guide michelin, the gault & millau, the bottin gourmand, the guide pudlo and the official guide of restaurants. Nature atthe corner of the streets, megève’s market putin place their stands at the «palais des sports» and in the village square. The natural flavors, the grocers and the best traditional products are waiting for you in a warm and friendlyatmosphere.

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Nicolas, snow groomer on the Rochebrune skiing area.

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afTER covERINg ThE NEWs aNd alTITudE of maRsEIllE foR ThE pasT 20 yEaRs oR so, ERIc fRaNcEschI Took To ThE maquIs IN 2008. hE clImbEd ToWaRds ThE mouNTaINs To sETTlE aT aRouNd 800m, IN ThE hauTE-pRovENcE alps, WhERE hE coNTINuEs To phoTogRaph NEWs WhEN IT happENs by. aNd hIs gazE has halTEd hERE IN mEgèvE To makE a sERIEs of poRTRaITs of ThE mEN aNd WomEN Who WoRk IN ThE shadoWs of ThE NIghT. a TWofold REasoN To puT a facE To, aNd alloW a collEcTIoN of phoTogRaphs To spEak abouT ThEsE pEoplE, usually INvIsIblE yET so INdIspENsablE IN ThE lIfE of ThE REsoRT.

portfolio ERIc fRaNcEschI

victor, croupier at the casino of Megève.

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Audrey, night receptionist at the Arboisie hotel.

Righthand page: Ayan, DJ at the palo Alto.

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his way

WhEN hE composEd a TuNE pRovIsIoNally ENTITlEd For Me IN mEgèvE, JacquEs REvaux haRdly ImagINEd ThaT hE had JusT WRITTEN a soNg ThaT Would bEcomE a gREaT sTaNdaRd - My Way - Today cElEbRaTEd by a sculpTuRE ThaT pIERRE maRgaRa has dEcIdEd To offER To hIs vIllagE by adopTIoN, aNd ThE EREcTIoN of WhIch Is plaNNEd foR 2012.

composed at the canada hotel in Megève by his friend Jacques Revaux, exported to the USA by paul Anka, adapted by Don costa and immortalised by Frank Sinatra on the 30th December 1968, My Way reached the top of the charts in April 1969 to become the most reproduced song in the World. The American crooner’s version was just the beginning of a long series… Elvis presley, Nina Simone, luciano pavarotti… they all wanted to sing it their own way! To celebrate the 40th anniversary of this XXth century standard, to seal the friendship that binds him to the composer and the love story that he has maintained with Megève for more than four decades, pierre Margara decided to engrave in bronze and marble these few musical notes of an eternal melody which have never stopped travelling the World, with a sculpture inspired by the words of paul Anka…

Fingers poised on a piano keyboard taking off into the skies… a man and a woman symbolising expectation and chance encounters… working of the matter, the hand, music, the couple… this majestic work of art – measuring 10 meters long, 4 meters high and 4 meters wide – unites all the themes to which the artist is particularly partial. presented at the Fer à cheval hotel on the 21st August 2008, then unveiled on the church square on the 12th April 2009, the maquette has since then been metamorphosed into a monumental sculpture. Offered to the village, it will be erected in 2012 in the rehabilitated “5 Rues” quarter, near the famous jazz club bearing the same name, and where musical notes have resounded forever… the wheel has turned full circle… He did it… his way !

Alexandre Mollard

culTuRE

hE dId IT…

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MediA libRARYRead the newspapers, a comic book or a hiking guide;consult your e-mails on the web,plunge into a beautiful book ofphotographs of mountain flowers and plants or listen to music… There are so many different activitiespossible at the media library with its wide choice of books, cds, dvds, cd-Roms and magazines, not forgetting the multi media area: 11 posts available to subscribers, adultsand children alike; Wireless Internet connection free for those with alaptop.press area, multimedia etc…parvis andré mollard247, route du palais des sportsTel: +33 (0)4 50 91 57 70http://mediatheque.megeve.fr

bRidge cluble puck, patinoire centraleTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 06 63

eXhibitions And showsconcerts, films, conferences, skating galas, ice hockey matches, painting or sculpture exhibitions in local galleries, at the congress centre and in some of the hotels.

lAnguAge couRseschildren and adultscIfEl Jeunes diplomatesTel: +33 (0)4 79 37 19 78www.cifel.fr

PAinting clAsslearn how to draw and paintcreatively.The atelier du chat Noir is anassociation, a place to expressyourself, to exchange knowledge with artists.painting lessons from the age of 15.

all year long enrolment.open to everyone, initiation orperfection of your techniques.private lessons on demand.group lessons.Theme lessons 2 or 3 days (portrait,oil painting, travel book, initiation...)atelier du chat Noirmobile: +33 (0)6 63 21 45 53www.atelierduchatnoir.fr

the «cAlVAiRe»an unusual calvary, a formerpilgrimage site, was built in thexIxth century on the east side ofthe village.Inside the 14 chapels andoratories, many woodensculptures depict the scenesof the passion of christ. Thecalvary in megève, inspired bythe one in varallo en valsesia,is the only one of its kind inthe Rhône-alps region. It is aEuropean sacred mountain siteand has been on the nationalhistoric monuments additionallist since 1988.following huge restorationwork, carried out from 2001, the site has been restored to its former glory. The chapels and oratorieshave been carefully renovated,both inside and outside, andthe surrounding countrysidehas been landscaped to lookas it did in the xIxth when themonument was built.

hAut VAl d‘ARlY MuseuMdiscovery of the heritage in anold farm: agriculture, handicraft,daily life, ski and mountain.50m from megève’s Touristoffice.adult: €3.50 - child €2.80group prices.88, rue du docteur charles socquetTel: +33 (0)4 50 91 81 00mobile: +33 (0)6 03 08 07 73museehautvaldarly.free.fr

MegèVe MuseuMThe megève museum is temporarily closed due to reconstruction and restoration work.

guides of the «Pays de savoie»guided tours on reservation,for the following themes:«The historical centre of megève»«The calvaire»«a very present past»: discoveryof the rural, religious andarchitectural heritage of 2 hamlets«The Water».more Information atmegève Tourisme.

MegèVe hoRse sleighRidessleigh bells ringing, the clipclopof hooves on the cobbles,a relaxing ride at a gentlycadenced rhythm that belongsnot to moscow or vienna andeven less to the 1900’s, buthere to the streets of megève.Every day of the year!place du villageTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 30 47groups: +33 (0)6 62 47 64 70

culTuRE aNd hERITagE

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Getting marriedIN mEgèvE

a lITTlE vIllagE, a RomaNTIc TREasuRE TRovE NEsTlINg IN a mouNTaINous dEcoR, oNE of ThE mosT bEauTIful laNdscapEs IN ThE WoRld… IT’s NoT suRpRIsINg ThEREfoRE ThaT mEgèvE has ThE 5Th posITIoN amoNg ThE 10 mosT bEauTIful placEs To gET maRRIEd, accoRdINg To a REpoRT publIshEd by ThE famous agENcy REuTERs. afTER haWaII, buT bEfoRE NEW yoRk! ThE INfaTuaTIoN sTRETchEs faR bEyoNd ThE NaTIvEs of mEgèvE oR ThosE Who aRE IN lovE WITh ThE vIllagE. WITh aRouNd 40 WEddINgs IN ThE vIllagE Each yEaR, IT musT bE saId ThaT mEgèvE offERs all ThE facIlITIEs aNd amENITIEs NEcEssaRy To oRgaNIsE aN uNfoRgETTablE occasIoN foR boTh ThE bRIdE aNd gRoom aNd ThEIR guEsTs. ThE laTEsT TRENd Is To oRgaNIsE ThE WEddINg duRINg ThE WINTER. WhITE oN WhITE aNd ThE daNcINg sNoWflakEs caN oNly add To ThE magIc of ThE sETTINg aNd ThE ENchaNTmENT of ThE momENT! WhaT could bE moRE RomaNTIc? WhERE caN WE say, “I do” IN mEgèvE? a look aT ThE cuRRENT TRENds WITh vIRNa aNd lIza lucchIaRI of daylovE EvENT, WEddINg plaNNERs sITuaTEd IN mEgèvE…

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afNoRapart from chamonix, megeve Tourisme is the only tourist office in haute-savoie to have been awarded four stars for the quality of it’s facilities. This recognition is the user’s guarantee that the easy access, the welcome given to visitors on the spot, by phone, by postor by email, the layout of the amenities, the freely available information, the helpfulness and competence of the personnel, staff training and visitor satisfaction are all regularly monitored.

And adapted to everyone’s needs:as part of the quality control procedure, megève Tourisme. In partnership with mitra (Rhône-alpes tourism engineering mission) is committed to a voluntarist policy designed to promote the development of tourism adapted to the needs of the disabled.more information on www.megeve.com

Getting married The idyllic reputation and magic of Megève have made the village the 5th favourite

wedding destination in the World. Megève is the 5th favourite wedding destination in the World, does that surprise you?Not at all! And even less for two people like us totally in love with Megève! The idyllic and magical reputation of this village makes it an undeniably perfect World destination… Somewhere really unique to get married!

How do you explain the increasing popularity of winter weddings?Getting married in the winter is still original and quite new. And that is exactly what more and more young brides and grooms to be are looking for. They want to be different and their wedding to be a memorable occasion for their guests. The high-class services that Megève offers become more accessible in the off-season.

What are the questions to ask before choosing a hotel for your wedding?First you need to know if the hotel can cater for the number of guests you expect, in terms of both the reception and accommodation. Then you need to find out the conditions regarding the private hire of the premises, closing and licensing hours and of course the service and facilities the hotel offers: catering, wine, accommodation, spa…

What are the different ambiances that Megève can offer future brides and grooms, and what style of wedding?No matter the chosen hotel, by getting married in the winter, under the snow and in Megève, the style of the wedding will inevitably be very romantic and the ambiance enchanting! After that, the tone will vary depending on the star rating of the hotel… Somewhat chic and sophisticated or more relaxed and natural.

For a wedding in Megève, what is it that distinguishes one hotel from another?All of Megève’s hotels offer a great comfort and an abundance of up market services. cosy decor for some, authentic for others, with a more intimate setting and wonderful panoramas as a bonus… Menus will vary also from one venue to another, some being quite frankly gastronomic! There are also differences in terms of Spa facilities or the possibility to have Brunch on the morning after the wedding…

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Can you describe a typical reception? The evening commences with cocktails and, in some hotels with special heating equipment, this can even be outdoors. Otherwise inside around a cosy open log fire! Then it’s time for the dinner, of a gastronomic excellence, and rarely the more rustic “mountain” cuisine. After dinner the dancing begins with a Dj or band.

What else can be organised? A torch lit descent if the cocktails take place in an “alpage” or altitude restaurant.

And the suite for the newly weds? The bride and groom’s suite, often the most beautiful on the premises and decorated with flowers for the occasion, is usually offered by the hotel! Most of the time, the hotel teams lavish the young couple with small gifts and extra special attention, such as care and beauty treatments.

And the day after? 95% of the time, the newly weds like to offer their guests a brunch, giving them the opportunity to prolong the festivities with their family and friends. This can be organised in an altitude restaurant, offering guests the possibility of an afternoon’s skiing. An other enjoyable idea for the next day: suggest activities such as everyone making a video clip (lip dub) together. Great memories!

Some examples of weddings you have recently organised in Megève? last March we organised a civil wedding with the vows being taken outside in the snow. yet another style: a small wedding in a mountain refuge, for truly sporty types with a fondue and skiing on the menu of festivities!

What’s the most unusual request you have already answered? Organise a wedding facing the Mont-Blanc and with

private hire of the Jaillet ski lifts. At night, all the guests in their full wedding attire, wearing snow boots and carrying dainty shoes and wedding slippers! Upon arrival at the restaurant, a quick change of footwear and everyone dressed for the occasion! Then the

wedding photographs with the couple beside a snowplough!

Is there a particular anecdote that stands out in your memory? Marie and Thomas’ dog and sleigh ride, two hours before the ceremony, to be completely relaxed before saying “I do”

Flora Bornstein

The teams lavish the young couple with small gifts and extra

special attention

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too! I lovE you

“mEgèvE”? IT Is ExTRaoRdINaRy, ThE skI slopEs aRE WoNdERful, WE caN skaTE aNd ThE pEoplE aRE so NIcE! …” ThEsE fEW WoRds could havE bEEN saId Today, aNd yET ThEy aRE foRTy yEaRs old!

In 1969 Gilbert le Bescond, at the time the Mayor of Megève, made a speech that seems to be very topical, even timeless. The critics, negative or positive, are identical…the images, real or imaginary, remain intact… the way Megève is perceived is the same. The first magistrate of the village, born in carhaix in Brittany, knows that we must beware of pre-conceived ideas, of prejudices and biased opinions… that those who stigmatize the resort are precisely those “who have never laid a foot in Megève” neophytes who “know nothing about winter sports except by hearsay”. But the mayor of Megève knows that those who have visited Megève, “be it only for a few days”, who have got to know and mixed with the native Mègevans “have left with the impression” of leaving “a second home”.

Gilbert le Bescond knows that Megève was a village before being a resort, and that its history, dating back many centuries, has left traces still visible in today’s landscape… but he also knows that recent history has transformed the village into a capital of the art of living in the mountains, that the “aristocrats who haunt it […] have impregnated the succeeding generations with their class and sense of hospitality”… that real class is not a question of fortune or birth, that “the most modest families mix […] with celebrities” and that Megève’s strength lies in its ability to “offer everyone the possibility to come […] and have a wonderful holiday”… a strength that remains a resolute topicality.

Alexandre Mollard

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WhaT bETTER sETTINg ThaN mEgèvE To makE you WaNT To say ThaT you lovE Each oThER? so, abovE all, doN’T hEsITaTE To sEIzE ThE momENTs To lovE aNd savouR ThaT lovE, dEclaRE youR lovE foR ThE WoRld To sEE, pRovE youR lovE. hERE Is ouR haRvEsT of dEdIcaTEd IdEas To REap To dEclaRE youR aRdouR, To makE youR lovEd oNE’s hEaRT bEaT fasTER aNd To offER youR oWN bEauTIful lovE sToRy ThE mosT RomaNTIc of dEcoRs.

shoppINg

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1 - aRpIN blaNkET: €225, décoRaTIoN TIssoT NavaRRo. 2 - fuR TRImmEd slIppERs: €77.50, homE sWEET homE. 3 - Roxy skI JackET “ToRa bRIghT”: €245, Roxy. 4 - fRamEd azNavouR phoTo IN muRaNo glass by vENINI: €2,000, galERIE 56. 5 - bEaRbRIck 1000% “dEsIgNER alExaNdER gIRaRd”: €1,500, galERIE luxuRy sTuff & Toys. 6 - oRIgINal paINTINg oN Wood: €800, décoRaTIoN TIssoT NavaRRo. 7 - sET of 2 goblETs: €50, maRIE REd WINE: €10 “domaINE dE maRIE” - ThE fERmEs dE maRIE. 8 - soNIa RykIEl sWEaTER avENuE moNTaIgNE. 9 - WoollEN hEaRT cushIoN: €40, homE sWEET homE. 10 - “chocolaTE” hEaRT boxEs, fouRNIl dE mEgèvE. 11 - sWaRovskI kEy RINg “vINyl & cRIsTal x RougEs: €49, “Thomas sabo” sIlvER bRacElET: €298, bouTIquE chIc alTITudE. 12 - REd hEaRT dIsh: €25, baRoN dE RoThschIld champagNE: €72, domaINE du moNT d’aRboIs. 13 - “kIss mE”, mETal sculpTuRE, aRTIsTE fd63: €1,500, galERIE luxuRy sTuff & Toys. 14 - cRIsTal hEaRT pENdaNTs “apaRTmENT foR RENT”: €95 Each, folkloRE bIJoux. 15 - almoNd macaRooN, fREsh RaspbERRy & bouRboN vaNIlla moussE: pÂTIssERIE - “compToIR du pèRE soTIEu” TEa shop. 16 - cashmERE Rock, coNfIdENcE cachEmIRE. 17 - REd hEaRT: €20, fIocco & fIls. 18 - vEuvE clIcquoT sakuRa pINk champagNE: €45, m lE vIN. 19 - “glIssE aNd lovE” chaRlIE adam: €160, phoTo Tops socquET. 20 - TEa poT: €60 - Jug: €32, poTERIE péNélopE. 21 - slEEvElEss T-shIRT: €95, faITh coNNExIoN. 22 - “sylvIE ThIRIEz” baTh ToWEl: €40, TRèflE vERT. 23 - book “lE RENdEz-vous”, écolE dEs loIsIRs: €11, bécassINE. 24 - RElaxINg aRomaThERapy EssENcE, “dEcléoR” EssENTIal oIl sERum: €52, moIsTuRIsINg mIlk: €23, “fER a chEval” hoTEl. 25 - vah “WoodEN boW & aRRoW”: €24, bécassINE. 26 - hEaRT cushIoN: €85, décoRaTIoN TIssoT NavaRRo. 27 - supERlIghT quIlT JackET, 100% NaTuRal fEaThERs: €329, colmaR. 28 - TERRacoTTa by J.balloNI: €1,900, 1864 aNTIquITés... Our Thanks TO The “Fer à Cheval” hOTel.

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14 - cRIsTal hEaRT pENdaNTs “apaRTmENT foR RENT”: €95 Each, folkloRE bIJoux. 20- TEa poT: €60, poTERIE péNélopE. 16 - cashmERE Rock, coNfIdENcE cachEmIRE. 10 - “chocolaTE” hEaRT boxEs, fouRNIl dE mEgèvE.

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mEgèvE, aN ExcEpTIoNal vIllagE by dEfINITIoN, has a NumbER of spas, bEauTy INsTITuTEs, haIRdREssINg saloNs, pERfumE shops aNd EvEN sEvERal pRofEssIoNals Who comE To youR homE foR TREaTmENTs foR boTh mEN aNd WomEN. hENcEfoRTh a REvoluTIoNaRy dyNamIc WIll ENablE couplEs To folloW ThEIR WEll-bEINg aNd bEauTy TREaTmENTs TogEThER.

Advertising campaigns are increasingly showing men that there are a number of products created especially for their skin, and that well-being can also be conjugated in the masculine. They no longer have to content themselves with standard products with slightly feminine fragrances, or to stand by and watch while women care for the needs of their bodies. Esthetical treatments for men are becoming a part of everyday life and no longer represent a niche, but an exponential market. The village’s dozen or so institutions, salons and spas bear witness : “More and more men are asking for facials, muscle relaxation after skiing or well-being treatments”. The days of confusing the genders are over, as taking care of oneself is no longer just a feminine notion… To meet the needs of this growing demand, the professionals no longer hesitate to propose made to measure formulas to this new clientele. Skin cleansing for men, facials based on specific ointments, algae body wrappings, manicures, sport or comfort massages. However the institutes are the first to consider that men need more intense massages : “We do a lot of facial treatments, hair removing and manicures, but we prefer to recommend our clientele to go to physiotherapists for massages”. So ladies and gentlemen, you have heard correctly, it is possible to go to these institutes and spas together and take advantage of “à la carte” treatments, alone or in duo, to get the maximum out of romantic holidays for two in the mountains.

Johana Trossat

of their fingers

IN lovE To ThE TIps

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of their fingers

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AlPAgAdedicated to well-being andserenity, this intimate spa, entirely in stone, has 2 treatment cubicles, a Turkish bath, a fun pool and a fitness studio ensuring relaxation and pleasure.hôtel alpaga74, allée des marmousetsTel. +33 (0)4 50 91 48 70www.lodgemontagnard.com

Anti-Age technologYthe “PARfuMeRie deMegèVe“Technology of Internationalrepute bringing a flawlessservice tailored to your needscombined with the know-howthat has guaranteed ourreputation for decades.The “parfumerie de megève”:highly skilled treatments withthe most prestigious caritaselection, crème de la mer,kanebo, prairie, valmont. a privileged moment to paytribute to the passing years incomfort and pleasure…. place de l’égliseTel. +33 (0)4 50 21 25 38www.parfumerie-megeve.com

AQuAfloRès hoMesPAa cosyspa moment in your homeor one of the registered aquaflores hotels.aqua bike hire and happy’florès Evenings: vIp spa bubbles! health’sense comes to you:specialists at your service(physiotherapist, hairdresser, beauty therapist, sports coach). Experience the biomineralp treatments with the aquaflorès product line “glacier Waters”, 100% natural, active and certified organic. personalised procedures: high performance: slimming, the ultimate technique. Essentials: massages tailored to your personal requirements from €34, health’sense assessment, treatments for the body, face and hair, manicure, hair removal (half-legs + bikini + underarms) from €38*, short haircut from €22…conditions: upon request.original: aqua tennis, Nutriblu, pilates.

cures of 2 to 6 days: back health, happy mum and Wedding packages.all year, 7/7 at your home, order our packages and gift vouchers on www.homespa.proTel: + 33 (0)6 16 30 16 36

ARboisie sPAThe latest edition to the spas of megève, blending well being and gentleness for moments of intense relaxation. body and facial treatments, specific programs...hôtel l’arboisie541, route du golletTel. +33 (0)4 50 55 35 90www.hotel-arboisie-megeve.com

beAutY woRKshoPchAlet du Montd’ARboisThe spa at the 5* chalet du mont d’arbois is a unique venue. chantal and her team offer massages and rituals from different countries all over the World, together with a wide range of astounding and high performance treatments using the anne semonin aromatherapy line and the new kéraskin active ingredients.The focus is on slimming treatments. Treatments to measure, based uniquely on high-performance manual techniques of guaranteed efficiency and having a real impact on the body:- The martine de Richeville body remodelling technique;

- The kéraskin Esthetics morphologist ritual;

- The chalet special to measure with its palpate & roll massage.

our massages from around the World are accompanied by hatha yoga, the energy yoga, guaranteeing harmony of the mind and body. The spa team, with their well-defined specialities will bring you moments of well-being and deep relaxation. possibility of duo massages.chalet du mont d’arboisTel. +33 (0)4 50 21 09 18www.domainedumontdarbois.com

cARole RAVieR - beAutY tReAtMenta professional in beauty and well being who also pampers you with treatments in your home.personalised and specific treatments, latest generation facials, energetic modeling, reflexology.Tel. +33 (0)6 13 80 73 63www.megeve-esthetique-et-modelages.com

decléoR sPA At the feR À cheVAldiscover aromatherapy thedecleor way and the powersof essential oils on the skin andmind. unique, with 450 m2, thefer à cheval spa is waiting topamper you with treatmentsand massages in 6 treatmentrooms, of which 2 are double.swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath, fitness room, yoga lessons, aqua bike, coach on request…hotel le fer à cheval 36, route du crêt d’arboisTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 30 39www.feracheval-megeve.com

en PARAllèlecentre for energy-giving treatments, comprising 3 treatment rooms and 4 therapists:bi-aura therapy, multi-levelhealing, Touch body harmony,plantar reflexology or massage,Reiki des anges, sophrology.2, allée du sporting de RochebruneTel. +33 (0)6 12 22 80 81

esPRit coAchThe “Esprit coach” team bringthe spa atmosphere into yourhome or holiday residence.massages from around theWorld, facial and bodytreatments tailored to yourpersonal requirements, coaching,aqua gym, hairdressing…Exceptional treatments basedon organic essential oilsregenerate your being thanks toa complete range of personalized services lavished on you by qualified professionals.With 8 years experience in home services, the Esprit-coach team offers a brand new range of

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personalised treatments this year: hotcold slimming massages…the special skier’s massage…treatments from asia and the alps.open throughout the year 7/7 - at your home and by appointment. 1592 route de ladyTel. +33 (0)6 28 32 56 93espritcoachmegeve.fr

flocons de selThe new “flocons de sel” has aspa offering innovative beautytreatments, reflections of thechef’s gastronomic cuisine.a tribute to the savours andcolours of the mountains, thefun themed treatments areinspired by the aromaticingredients used in the “flocons de sel” restaurant1775, Route du leutazTel.+33 (0) 4 50 21 49 99www.floconsdesel.com

Meg’Accueilactivities department. goodhealth all year. gym,aquagym, pilates, stretching and Relaxation. one session rates, or subscriptions from €6,50.Information and reservations:sports centreTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 59 09megaccueil.activites@megeve.fr

sYlVie feRRe PilAtesMethodThe pilates method makes itpossible to carry out a sportingactivity with gentle, yet efficientgraceful movements, combiningmuscular reinforcement,mobilization, stretching andrelaxation.Individual session, possibility ofa package of several sessions,

at your home, upon request orat the studio.sylvie ferre - pilates methodcoach (pilate Institute graduate)Tel. +33 (0)6 09 49 64 37sylvie.ferre@adeli.biz

“le PRiVilege”Thalgo facial and bodytreatments. lpg-cellu, m6 keymodule (2)s latest generation, body (lipomodeling) and facial (liftmodelling), hammam, uv, balneo, massages, modelling,treatments using hot stones.New: “memoire oceane” (ocean memory) marine emotion spa ritual: sea salt and seaweed petal scrub and new modelling vital with a mineral pouch and energising massage oil.déclic weightloss package: €436destination beauty week: 5 treatments €177package of 3 remineralising treatments: €107relaxation week: €479anti-age treatment: €415open all year round.Impasse du sorbierTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 45 25www.leprivilege-megeve.com

VieuX Moulin sPAthe “VieuX Moulin”beAutY And well-being centRe“massage is an art, a sacred dance”.harmony and serenity in a spa dedicated to the awakening of the senses. Enjoy the benefits of our professionals’ expertise in the realm of well-being and beauty:

creative massage with organic plant oils, ayurveda massage, foot reflexology, Thai, Tibetan ritual. at the “vieux moulin”, facial treatments and body cocooning, 100% organic by vitacology, auto-make up lessons as each woman has their own beauty secrets just waiting to be revealed.body care, slimming cures,body hair removal, manicure, feet beauty,sauna, balneo-therapy.hôtel le vieux moulin188, rue ambroise martinTel. +33 (0)4 50 91 90 46www.vieuxmoulin.com

PuRe Altitudespa and range of treatmentsderived from organic dermacosmetics, based on Edelweiss, alpine flowers and natural ingredients for intense skin regeneration and a radiantcomplexion.personalised and originalrituals, rare massages, out of the ordinary procedures:“Radiant frost” or “himalayanRose” facial treatments (from €58): “mineral Elixir” or “White as snow” body treatments(from €112).“Energy giving alpine massage”, kansu massage.programmes from 2 to 6 days,from €358.body wrappings, hydrotherapy,cellu m6 keymodule, g5,treatments for the hair andbody.

les fermes de Mariechemin de Riante collineTel: +33 (0)4 50 93 03 10

hôtel Mont blancplace de l’EgliseTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 20 02

le lodge Park100, rue d’arlyTel: +33 (0)4 50 93 05 03www.sibuethotels-spa.comwww.pure-altitude.com

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aNd If ThIs hEavENly dEcoR Was JusT madE foR faIRy TalEs aNd lENT ITsElf To WRITINg ThE mosT bEauTIful lovE sToRIEs. aNd If ThIs ENvIRoNmENT, WoRThy of pIcTuRE books, Was To blENd WITh ThE bIRTh of passIoNs.

love stories

When dreams and reality merge into one, such was the music score composed in Megève between Francine and Sacha Distel. Born Bréaud, Francine had discovered the joys of skiing in the village during her childhood. It was to Megève that she then came to ski in January. It was also in Megève that she met the love of her life, on the Rochebrune gondola. It is in Megève that we love to believe that everything is possible. As it is in the village that the lovely Francine married Sacha Distel, the show business star who broke the hearts of all the girls. Mind you, from the moment they met in January 1961, he only had eyes for her and she for him! A love story that was to last for over 40 years, for the better and for the worst! They took their vows in January 1963 at the town hall of Megève. The ski champion and the singer wanted to be wed in the utmost discretion but, on leaving, an archway of ski poles and the flashing lights of photographers were waiting for them. The young and naïve bride discovered a world that she would have to learn to get accustomed to.

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a RomaNTIc Idyll Was boRN“Our meeting was a real case of love at first sight! Until that moment this feeling had been unfamiliar to me. We had only been together for a few weeks when Sacha had to leave for a tour in Brazil. He asked me to go with him and I accepted, me, the young, well brought up and convent educated young lady, and from then on we were never apart”.

A romantic idyll was born. Megève as the backdrop had really engraved the memory of its heritage. The village had inspired the couple, and then their family, to be loyal to the resort. As Francine feels a profound love for the village that she has transmitted to her three children. Her son, Julien, and his wife live in Megève where their children go to school, a school that Julien and his brother laurent know very well, because they too went there between christmas and Easter when they were young boys. In her book, “l’amour n’est pas simple “ (“love is not simple”), published in 2007 by Jc lattès, Francine Distel recalls the story of her life, her universe, both wonderful and complicated at the same time, and recounts the most beautiful memories of this love. like an invitation to happiness and with much generosity she gives an account of the different strategies that enabled her to preserve her universe despite her sorrows and keep her love intact forever.

Johana Trossat

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bEsT of ThE alpschamonix Mont-Blanc, cortina d’Ampezzo, Davos, Garmisch-partenkirchen, Grindelwald, kitzbühel, lech/Zürs am Arlberg, Megève, St. Anton am Alberg, Saint Moritz, Seefeld and Zermatt. Well known tourist destinations, places appreciated for their natural quality, blending perfectly into the surroundings with the splendid association of conserved traditions, and taking progress into account carefully. These twelve alpine sites, rare and precious have joined together.

Why?To be the best winter sport’s champions and summer mountain resorts, to show and guarantee together the greatest tourist quality. Because they are lucky to be situated in the heart of one of the most magnificent landscapes on this Earth, and to benefit from an international recognition. They are the ambassadors of the Alps.

busINEss TouRIsmcombining the useful, the pleasant, work and detail, megève with its infrastructure is perfect for organising corporate seminars, meetings and events.

AlP’incentouRmaison de la montagneTel. +33 (0)4 50 58 66 70contact@alpincentour.comwww.alpincentour.com

PKRiRue d’arlyTel. +33 (0)4 50 58 39 42megeve@pk-rivoyages.comwww.pk-rivoyages.com

Red sKi oRgAnisAtion176, rue de la posteTel. +33 (0)4 50 21 00 97redskiorganisation@megeve-ski.comwww.rso-megeve.com

MegèVe RéseRVAtionInformationTel. +33 (0)4 50 21 57 24charlottes.nuques@megeve.com www.groupes.megeve.com

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skiingSki touring is not only good for the body, but also for the mind… with the stipulation that you start in the best conditions. First recommendation : equip yourself lightly by renting your equipment – skis, shoes, skins, and poles – from a specialist. Not forgetting the irreplaceable and essential trio : “ARvA (avalanche beacon, echo-location device), shovel and probe” which are essential should there be a snow slide. Whenever possible, we don’t hesitate to use the ski lifts before starting our ascent : the descent will be even longer! last point : before leaving, take the advice of a mountain professional to choose an itinerary and always abstain from ski touring if the risk of avalanche is too great.

Here is a tour without difficulties or dangers with, as a bonus, a lovely reward at the summit: a magnificent view over the Mont-Blanc mountain range. From

the centre of Megève, head in the direction of the Rochebrune gondola and take the “Route du Bouchet” to the station. park in the car park that is the starting point of the tour (1,836 meters). put your skis on and follow the snow-covered road that climbs to the chevan “Alpage” passing by the Fontanettes, the Tête, and the Stiard. At chevan (1,620 m) go up southwards to the point marked “1,836” on the map. Then following a quite steep wall (heading east) you reach the final gentle slopes that lead to the summit (2,139 m). After the effort of climbing up, now’s the moment to enjoy the downhill skiing. Two choices: go down by the same route as you came up by or via the chavannes cirque.

Total altitude difference : 720 mTime: 2 h / 2 h 30IGN Map : 35310T Béryl Ziegler

WhEN skI TouRINg, you caN foRgET ThE cRoWds aT ThE skI lIfTs aNd ENJoy ThE magIc of ThE mouNTaINs. gREaT, buT hoW caN WE lEaRN ThE plEasuREs of ThIs NaTuRE oRIENTaTEd spoRTs dIscIplINE IN complETE sEcuRITy? JEaN gadolET, mouNTaIN guIdE, INvITEs you To “puT oN youR skINs” aT ThE gaTEWay To mEgèvE. oN ThE pRogRammE: calm, ThE gREaT ouTdooRs aNd a fEElINg of ToTal fulfIlmENT.

puRE

WINTER favouRITEin need of A snow-shoe tReKKing bReAK?

from €205 per person for a 3 nights in a 2* hotel and 2 half-days of snowshoe trekking with a guide. offer valid from the 7th January to the 4th february 2012 and from the 10th march to the end of the season. Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 29 52 www.megeve-reservation.com

skI TouRINg

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iMegève The imegève application makes life in megève even easier, giving your smartphone access to a maximum of themed and geo-localised information: the current week’s events, cultural activities, for families and children, shopping, bars and discotheques, spa and well-being, local products and produce, partner restaurants and hotels, good deals and reductions… m.megeve.com

MountAin guides’ officeski touring: excursions of a 1/2 day, day or several days with nights in a mountain refuge.snowshoe hiking on a glacier: discover the «mer deglace» glacier and the «coldu géant».snowshoes: half-day andday trek to discover the naturalenvironment, animal wildlifeand landscapes; nocturnalhikes and outings under starlight.from 10 years old.maison de la montagne76, rue a. martinTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 55 11www.guides-megeve.com

dog sledding AdVentuResas a family, with your childrenor friends, we have severalformulas to offer.discover the sport - 1h*: €60basic principles of dogsleddriving ½ day*: €110Night time outing: € 75canadian trapper style eveningon request (* for adults andchildren from the age of 12.)more information and bookingonly by mail at:montduvillard@aol.comgift vouchers are available onwww.montduvillardnord.comTel/fax: +33 (0)4 50 21 37 03

AdVentuRe PARKa multitude of activities in theheart of the forest, climb uphigh, swing from tree to treeand put your body and courage to the test in totalsecurity.from 5 to 10 years old: speciallevel. please book in advanceadult: €25 Junior: €17children: €10cote 2000 aventuremobile: +33 (0)6 76 29 71 04www.cote2000aventure.com

loPs & tReKssignposted tracks will guideyou through snow-coveredfields and fir trees.Tired? The non-skier passmakes your ascension easierthanks to the ski lifts.hungry? The mountainrestaurants are waiting for you during your trek to eat a pelaordiots de savoie. map on request at megève Tourisme.

PAintbAllan unforgettable experience!2 paintball sites in the middleof the cote 2000 forest with 7 different game scenarios for 1 to 2 hrs of fun.admission, supervision andequipment: €25/pers with 100 units.for an extra 100: €5 and €15for 400.open every day for reservationfrom 9am to 10pm from 12 years old.capacity of 1 to 40 persons.group or seminary prices:please ask us.paintball experienceJust before the altiport take theroad on the rightRoute de la cote 2000 (at thefoot of the airfield)Tel: +33 (0)6 09 81 31 17www.paintballexperience.net

NaTuRE sENsaTIoNs

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For years Alpine skiing has taken the limelight, but cross-country skiing is finally getting its revenge, as Skiers are now rediscovering the pleasures of this winter sport that is coming back into fashion. We have to admit that cross-country skiing has more than one advantage. Open to everyone, it attracts nature lovers as much as sporty types looking for physical effort, or even performance.Endurance, cross-country skiing is in fact one of the most complete sports there is, as it uses every major muscle group. “It is the best cardio-training session that you can do, helping to strengthen the heart, improve respiration and endurance. Not forgetting the good it does for the abdominal muscles, arms, thighs and legs”, explains Thierry porret, cross-country

skiing instructor in Megève. But before throwing yourself onto the prepared trails, it is important not to jump certain stages. Beforehand it is best to prepare physically with running sessions or abdominal exercises. We would even advise beginners to have a few initiation lessons. Once on the tracks it is preferable to start with a relatively easy and short trail, then increase the intensity and the degree of difficulty progressively over the following days. At the end of each session, remember to do a few stretching exercises to relax the muscles and drink a lot of water for an easier recovery.A complex physical sport, cross-country skiing is equally a pleasure sport where there is no room for monotony, as there are several methods of doing

IN mEgèvE WE lovE opEN-aIR spoRTs acTIvITIEs. aNd cRoss-couNTRy oR NoRdIc skIINg Is oNE of ThE bEsT Ways of gETTINg ExERcIsE. bEcausE ThIs ENduRaNcE spoRT Is as good as all ThE caRdIo-TRaININg sEssIoNs IN ThE WoRld. NoT suRpRIsINg ThEN ThaT IT aTTRacTs moRE aNd moRE folloWERs.

at heartfITNEss

cRoss-couNTRy skIINg

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this activity. Other than the traditional technique called “classic” where you progress in parallel grooves or tracks cut into the snow, you can also opt for “skate skiing”, where the skis are in a v position. Not forgetting Biathlon, a combination of skiing and rifle shooting. In Megève all the different versions of cross-country skiing are possible, and on 50 km of trails. The favourite site is still the livraz, which benefits from a good snow-cover and a wide variety of trails. Optimum conditions for embarking on exercise with family or friends!

Stéphanie Pioud

cRoss couNTRy skIINg

some splendid, skating or classic trails will take you all the way along the resort’s 38 km (24 miles) of marked pistes. odier/plaine d‘arly: 5 km (3 miles) cassioz-praz sur arly: 5 km (3 miles) mont d‘arbois-Encraty: 10 km (7 miles) la livraz-cote 2000: 18 km (11 miles)The mont d’arbois, plaine d’arly and cassioz loops are free of access.cross-country ski pass for sale at the first-aid post.chalet la livraz Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 47 52Insurance «carte neige» licence for sale at the sport’s club.

nordic ski initiation (free) biathlon discovery and initiationfrom 5:30 pm to 7 pm at the pré st amour, opposite the bus station.mondays 19th and 26th december 2011mondays 13th, 20th and 26th february 2012monday 5th march 2012

bIaThloN: mEgèvE hITs ThE bull’s EyEsince the french biathlon team’s victories in bursts in the vancouver Winter games last year, biathlon has the wind in its stern. a very complete sport, it is a combination of physical effort, skill and extreme concentration. moreover, it is still open to everyone, even children from 7 years. There are so many reasons to discover this rather atypical sport. besides, the megève Esf is one of the rare ski schools in france to have two shooting ranges (10 meters and 50 meters) on the livraz site. Initiation lessons are proposed throughout the winter and even during the summer by experienced Esf instructors and the megève cross-country skiing club, where there are lessons for both beginners and the more experienced.

Iso 14001 Megève a breeding ground for environmental high quality

having obtained, since 2007, the Iso 14001 certification, megève Tourisme created the event. megève’s structure can, in effect, boast for becoming the first certified office. zoom into the «environmental service» standard. published in 1996, the standard Iso 14001 is an international standard applied to all types of organisations whatever their size or activity. The concept of this Iso 14001 standard lays on the continued improvements of the environmental performances. The certification includes notably an understanding of environmental activities, the definition of an ecological policy and controlled procedures. These criterias are drastic, but on the other hand, the Iso 14001 standard adds a strong credibility to our partners, accommodation owners and shop keepers. In the offices of megève Tourisme, everyone is already aware of the environmental impact issues. The Iso 14001 standard was firstly felt like a company project and a challenge for all. a reduction in water and energy consumption, ecological light bulbs and insulating doors, possibility of downloading the «megève magazine» on usb keys, reducing printing, recycled paper for all documents... there is no limit to ecological procedures.

Béryl Ziegler

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flYingMegèVe cote 2000AltiPoRtTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 33 67

AéRociMediscovery and sightseeing flightsTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 03 21www.aerocime.com

AéRo-clubpilot training school, for mountain flying qualificationTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 33 67

Mont-blAnc helicoPteRsmegève valley (10mn) from€70/perschamonix valley (20mn) from€140/persmont blanc Tour (30mn) from€190/perslinks with airports and otherresortsheli-ski and parachute jumpTel: +33 (0)4 50 92 78 00www.mbh.fr

PARAglidingAA hAut Vol ski, mountain first flight: €65souvenir diploma awarded after the flight.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 46 01mobile: +33 (0)6 11 11 95 29

bAPteMe PARAPentespecializing in maiden flightsfor 20 years. a dream cometrue, for all ages from 7 to 77.maiden flight: €65performance flight: €85Tandem piloting lessons(3 flights): €180family and groups rates.Tel. +33 (0)6 62 13 27 71www.megeve-parapente.com

MountAin guides‘officefirst Tandem flight½ day and day initiation.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 55 11www.guides-megeve.com

MegèVe AdVentuRe - PARAglidingThree instructors at your disposal to discover tandem flying with 0% «carbon gas emissions», and 100% «thrill emissions». several different formulas proposed - paragliding maidenflight - initiation with dual-control (3 or 6 flights).Tel. +33 (0)6 82 01 68 40www.megeve-aventure.fr

hot AiR bAlloonflightsAlPes MontgolfièReopen all year round, onreservation.673, route du val d’arlypraz sur arlyTel: +33 (0)4 50 55 50 60www.alpes-montgolfiere.fr

hEIghTs

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IN hauTE-savoIE ThE Top spEcIalIsT IN mouNTaIN WEaThER Is yaN gIEzENdaNNER. WEaThER foREcasTER foR all ThE mouNTaIN RaNgEs IN ThE WoRld, hE Is also a WEaThERmaN aT ThE chamoNIx foREcasT offIcE, WhERE hE has covEREd ThE ENTIRE dEpaRTmENT’s WEaThER foR 35 yEaRs.

Megève, being an important tourist centre in Haute-Savoie benefits from a specific programme that comes out every six hours giving temperature forecasts for five days. This information is sent to the Tourist Office and village of Megève. pierre Jond from the village’s Technical Services Department measures the temperature, the wind, the rain or snowfall and the cloud cover every day of the year. Nicolas Maboux and patrick Dousset, ski patrol and maintenance men, use probes to find out the depth of the snow cover throughout the winter so that we can be forewarned of avalanches. The weather forecast is indispensable and irreplaceable for those who do mountaineering or hiking sports. In winter it is also useful in other areas. Starting with snow clearing in the streets, the upkeep and maintenance of ski slopes and lifts, and triggering off avalanches. “Weather forecasts make it easier for holidaymakers to choose their activities and get the most out of their stay! yan informs us, “Our forefathers made do but today we like to take maximum advantage of the weather;” If it is true that there is a change in the climate, according to yan it is not irreversible. “We could easily return to the much colder and snowier winters of the past; I am convinced that it is simply a question of weather cycles.” There have always been large variations in the temperatures in Haute Savoie. The good news is that Megève, being situated in a wide and thus sunny, open valley, benefits from a microclimate that also means a special snow cover, with milder temperatures.

Marie-Christine Hugonot

aIR

mouNTaINweather

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spoRTs

Megève Magazine: How do you present the renovation project of the nautical centre?

Pascal Sirop: During the summer of 2011 the renovation of the indoor nautical centre will allow us, in a short time, to study carefully the different pools fitted with stainless steel 316l, a material that is very pleasant to the touch, easier to look after and will enable us to envisage shorter closing periods and thus gain between three and four weeks each year, allowing us to open for 350 days! The natural pools, overflowing and with the colour of a torrent will be more aesthetic and even more attractive. After renovating the centre we will be able to offer a 25 meter pool, fitted with depth contours or “équiprofondeur” at a depth of two meters along the entire length, quicker and better adapted to sports swimming, and a smaller pool with a zone for aqua gym 1m 30 deep, and a shallow “baby swimmer” zone heated to 32°c.

MM: How will the nautical centre operate this winter?

Pascal Sirop: This year we are starting something new: a prolonged opening of the outdoor Olympic pool after the summer, throughout the winter, with the water heated to between 28°c and 30°c and accessible by an airlock passage. It is a testing phase that inaugurates the future installations.

MM: What are the next stages in the renovation of the Nautical Centre?

Pascal Sirop: This first phase precedes a complete restructuring operation of the Sports and congress centre which plans the renovation of the outdoor Olympic pool in stainless steel with varying depths, notably of over 3 meters to make it easier to do an activity that has become very important in Megève: diving. The new pool which will also include a more shallow area for children, will be heated to 28°c in the winter thanks to energy given off when making ice for the skating rink. The restructuring also anticipates the creation of outdoor balneo-fitness pools, the renovation of the beach and a new layout for the Sports Spa: an area of 400 m² which could be accessible independently from the nautical centre. The global idea is to offer sports and relaxation swimming activities throughout the year.

Alexandre Mollard

ThE INauguRaTIoN of ThE NEW fITNEss aREa IN apRIl 2011 sET ThE complETE REsTRucTuRINg

of mEgèvE’s spoRTs aNd coNgREss cENTRE IN moTIoN,

commENcINg WITh ThREE fIRsT sTagEs: RENovaTIoN of ThE INdooR ThEN ThE ouTdooR pools aNd ThE cREaTIoN of a balNEo-fITNEss cENTRE. a

hugE pRoJEcT pREsENTEd To us by pascal sIRop, ThE pREsENT

maNagER of ThE complEx.

dive ahead! a gREaT

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VillAge centRAl oPen AiR ice RinKTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 23 77

olYMPic ice RinKdimensions: 60 x 30 m.musical animation, Nocturnal.

swiMMing PoolsIndoor pool 25 x 12.5children’s pool 12.5 x 12.5sauna, hammam, lessons.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 59 09

cliMbing wAllequipment not providedaccess exclusively for thoseaccompanied by a guide.

fitness centReindooR tennis couRtTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 15 71palais@megeve.frhttp://palais.megeve.fr

diVingdiving school at the sports centre swimming pool throughout the year and diving into the lake from april. Try a diving baptism and make your first bubbles alone with an instructor: €30 for 30 minutes. Initiation sessions in small groups (max 4 pers), individual lessons-getting back to scratch or perfection, lessons for ssI specialities, rescue and life-saving training sessions and diving in waterproof wetsuits.professional instructors, sEa centre (scubapro Education association), school registered with ffEssm/cmas, aNmp/cEdIp and ssI (scuba schools International).la plongée d’en hautTel. +33 (0)6 83 73 96 81www.plongee-megeve74.fr

spoRTs aNd coNgREss cENTRE

the MegèVe PAss*UnLImITEd Snow a zero limit ski pass that gives you access to the 445 km of ski runs that make up the Evasion mont blanc skiing area. Needless to say, you won’t be bored. Not forgetting that, with the megève pass, the pleasure continues after skiing, as it also gives you access, without moderation, to cultural and sports activities at the sports and congress centre, including unlimited admission

to the swimming pool, ice rink, body building (minimum age 15), table tennis and media library. With the megève pass, you have all the pleasure

without counting the cost.

* offer reserved for holders of an Evasion ski pass, paying for 6 to 16 days, bought in megève and only during the period from 8th January to 4th february andfrom 11th march to the end ofthe winter season. on sale at ski lift selling points

www.skiamegeve.com

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FROM 19 TO 22 JANUARY, ThE polo masTERs Is a REal lovE sToRy: ThaT of a maN – JEaN-yvEs dElfossE – foR a spoRT; ThaT of a maN foR hIs soNs – maThIEu aNd clémENT – aNd ThaT of aN oRgaNIsER foR a REsoRT – mEgèvE.

On the 19th, 20th and 21st January 1996, Jean-yves Delfosse organised the first “International Snow polo Trophy” in Megève, transposing the know-how and professionalism that had already proved their worth in Saint-Tropez. Megève, the pioneer, thus became the first resort in the French Alps to host such a competition. By transmitting his passion for polo to his sons – young players with impressive winner’s lists – and to the general public, and by remaining loyal to Megève, Jean-yves Delfosse was able to create a convivial and festive event where elegance and sportsmanship are the key words. The polo Masters have become an essential and much awaited rendezvous… a unique show where every match is a real performance… a remarkable and unique tournament where each period is an authentic equestrian jousting match, a sometimes fratricidal duel… an exceptional show that celebrates the beauty of the gesture, the control and precision of the riders, the strength and the spirit of their mounts, the beauty of these Argentinean criollo horses… an event full of thrills and shivers, of discovery, of surprises and the unexpected… a friendly and festive event where sport, emotion, adrenaline and charm are united together for the better and for the style… an annual rejoicing to discover or rediscover with delectation!

Alexandre Mollard

lovE hoRsEs To bITs!

EvENTs

mEgèvE polo masTERs

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dog lovERs aRE gIvEN a RENdEz vous oN ThE spoRTs cENTRE EsplaNadE IN mEgèvE oN ThE 12th And 13th JAnuARY To applaud ThE passagE of ThE gRaNd odyssEy savoIE moNT-blaNc. sETTINg ouT fRom ThE gRaNd massIf, ThE coNvoy WIll cRoss ThE mosT bEauTIful skIINg aREas IN ThE alps bETWEEN ThE 8Th aNd 18Th JaNuaRy.

“An event is born when the public appreciates it”, Henri kam, president of the Grand Odyssey Savoie Mont-Blanc, confides to us. And for eight years, thousands of spectators have followed this competition that unites men and dogs in a great sporting and friendly adventure. During the race nearly 300 four legged athletes provide the show over ten days or so. At their side, the best mushers in the World guide the teams with kindness. yet the route, the speed, the snow conditions and the weather bring added challenges. “A musher commits 14 dogs, for whom he is entirely responsible, to the competition. He doesn’t want them to come to any harm. These dogs are used to taking part in competitions in the Far North, where climatic conditions are hard, but where the terrain is flat”, explains Henri kam. Here lies the great difference with dog and sleigh racing in the mountains. Here, the climate is less harsh, particularly temperature levels. On the other hand, the topography and the nature of the terrain is a tough challenge for the teams of dogs and their masters. But these latter, who cannot do enough to look after their dogs : visits to the vet, massages, ointments and booties to protect their pads, and of course a profusion of caresses! They are ready to do anything out of love for their dogs, acting like real rescuers. And if a dog is injured, it usually finishes the race on a sleigh!

Evelyne Périnet Marquet

EvENTs

a sToRy of mEN aNd dogs

ThE gRaNd odyssEy

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a gENERous golfINg mENu Is aNNouNcEd fRom ThE 2nd to the 12th febRuARY : TEN days of compETITIoN To pRovE, If NEEds bE, ThaT ThERE Is NoThINg ouT daTEd abouT WINTER golf.

Slowly but surely snow golf has imposed itself to become one of the winter season’s much awaited events. Winter golf has gone beyond the stage of being a daring bet and won its place on the competition calendar. In this winter of 2012, that of the twelfth edition, there will be a total of a week and a half of competitions, all to be played on the Mont d’Arbois golf course. The first balls will be hit on the 2nd February during the vacheron constantin Snow Golf cup, a private competition. The under sixteens will then challenge one another in the Snow Golf kids on Sunday, a prelude to the Megève Winter Golf that will beat to the rhythm of several successive events. Finally, the ultimate day of competition will be devoted to the 4th Amateur Snow Golf World championships. Over the ten days some 500 golfing starts are expected, giving the spectators as many opportunities to come and grasp the nuance between green and white. Because the “greens” rechristened “whites” and the coloured balls contribute to the fun aspect but are not everything. With their usual landmarks somewhat blurred, the snow golfer needs to bring twice as much skill into play. Tennis player Nicolas Escudé and rally driver Bruno Saby have already tried out this sports discipline on Megève’s golf course, both with a certain success.

Pascal Arvin-Bérod

gREEN vEERs To WhITE, ThE balls spIN RouNd

sNoW golf cup

ThE gRaNd odyssEy

sNoW golf cup

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dEcEmbERfRom saTuRday 3Rd

Illumination of the Swarovski christmas tree in the village square.

saTuRday 3Rd crazy Horse showSince its creation this cabaret hascelebrated the beauty and sensualityof women in an intimate andsophisticated atmosphere.

ThuRsday 8Th

Echos - liés show

fRom ThuRsday 8Th To suNday 11Th “Restos du cœur” children’s christmas.

moNdays 19Th aNd 26Th

Nordic Skiing and biathlon for beginners

TuEsday 20Th

80th anniversary of the Sports centre.

TuEsdays 20Th aNd 27Th

Ice Hockey for everyone.Open-air ice rink.

saTuRday 24Th

Arrival of Santa claus throughthe village streets.

ThuRsday 29Th

princess Sarah’s christmas.Show on Ice.

saTuRday 31sT

Grand torch lit processions with theSki School instructors.

JaNuaRyfRom fRIday 6Th To suNday 8Th

International curling Tournament.“Sulpice” challenge.

ThuRsday 12Th aNd fRIday 13Th

The Grand Odyssey Savoie Mont-Blanc.Dog and sleigh race.

fRom ThuRsday 19Th To suNday 22Nd

17th Megève polo Masters.An exceptional event of the utmost elegance and at the height of tradition.

suNday 29Th

cross-country skiing Grand prix.“la Bûcheronne”.

Ski Mountaineering race “la Montée de Megève de l’Allais”-vertical race.

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Essentiel diary

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fEbRuaRyfRom ThuRsday 2Nd To suNday12Th

12th Megève Winter Golf TrophyThe traditional meeting that gathers Snow Golfers has been made even more attractive with 11 days of golf on a course which is as exceptional as it is prestigious: The Mont d’Arbois. This packed 2012 edition has a competition for everyone wishing to test out their clubs.

fRom fRIday 10Th To suNday 12Th

kandahar Masters FIS – Alpine Skiing

moNdays 13Th, 20Th aNd 27Th

Nordic Skiing and biathlon for beginners

TuEsdays 14Th aNd 21sT

Hockey for everyone.Open-air ice rink.

WEdNEsday 22Nd

young Mogul ski cup

fRIday 24Th

The ESF (French Ski School)celebrates its stars.

suNday 26Th

French Mogul Ski cup.

Snow carnival.

maRchfRIday 2Nd

The ESF celebrates its stars.

moNday 5Th

Nordic Skiing and biathlon for beginners.

ThuRsday 8Th

Theatre, the “clan des Héritiers”.

fRom moNday 5Th To suNday 18Th

Alpine Ski – FIS.Men’s – downhill and super G.

fRom ThuRsday 8Th To suNday 11Th

Megève High-Tech.2nd edition of new technologies days,sport and well-being products and services.

suNday 18Th

World cup Freestyle Final Dual Mogul Skiing

fRom moNday19Th To ThuRsday 22Nd

59th International Ski Tournament, the 6 Nations.

fRom fRIday 23Rd To suNday 25Th

16th Bridge Festival.

fRom WEdNEsday 28Th To saTuRday 31sT

18th “coq d’or” (Golden cock) Ski Open.1500 youngsters compete for a place on the national programme, aiming for the highest level.

apRIlTuEsday 3Rd

concert by the “pays de Savoie” Orchestra.

saTuRday 7Th

ESF (French Ski School) alpine ski racing

suNday 8Th

Sports club alpine ski racing

fRom fRIday 13Th

To suNday 15Th

6th Sports Dance Open.From the paso Doble to the Rumba, all the standards and latin American dances will be represented over the weekend.

suNday 22Nd

Skiing at the cote 2000.For the last day of opening on the slopes, the ski lifts are free.

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by caR- 70km (43 miles) from Geneva - 180km

(112 miles) from lyon- 272km (169 miles) from Milan -

600km (373 miles) from paris- 760km (475 miles) from lille -

1000km (621 miles) from london- calais / paris / Mâcon / Annecy /

Sallanches: A26 + A1 + A6 + A40- lyon / chambéry / Annecy /

Sallanches: A43 + A41 + A40- lyon / chambéry / Albertville: A43

+ A430- Genève / Sallanches: A40Trafic Information:www.bison-fute.equipement.gouv.frCovered car parks: 1980 parking places

by TRaINSallanches station: 12km (7 miles) from Megève (terminus St Gervais les Bains / le Fayet)- TGv train from paris, change at

Annecy on weekdays. Direct weekend.- Shuttle Bus service to resort from

Sallanches station Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 25 18 sat17@wanadoo.fr www.sat-montblanc.com

- Shuttle bus service to resort from Geneva’s bus station (The «dorsière»square)

- Borini Bus - www.borini.com Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 18 24

- SNcF info and reservation Tel: +33 (0) 892 35 35 35 www.voyages-sncf.com

- SNcF Megève Bus station information and reservation on the spot

by TaxIsStation - Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 28 20Alain TaxiMobile: +33 (0)6 84 01 23 77taximegeve@wanadoo.frwww.taximegeve.com

Alpine TaxiMobile:+33 (0)6 09 41 75 40contact@alpine-taxi.comwww.alpine-taxi.comDevesa Taxi - Tel: +33 (0)6 76 52 61 95Jo le taxi - Mobile: +33 (0)6 09 42 05 00Pascal TaxiMobile: +33 (0)6 09 31 51 30www.pascal-taxi.com

TRaNspoRT aNd vEhIclE RENTalles Transports du Mont-blancMobile: +33 (0)6 84 71 02 07ltmb.megeve@orange.fr - www.ltmb.frTransports Perinet GMobile: +33 (0)6 89 33 39 39perinetgilbert@orange.frEuropcar - Rental of cars, vans and 4x4Tel: +33 (0)4 50 91 99 28VIP limousinesluxury vehicle, 4x4, and mini bus rental. possibility of a bilingual driver.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 90 84 66Tel: +33 (0)6 85 66 99 41www.vip-limousines.frPalladium limousineluxury vehicle and 4x4 rental.possibility of a driver590 rue charles FeigeTel: +33 (0)4 50 78 07 80info@palladiumlimousine.comBORINI Buses - vehicle rental withdriver for 2 or more people.Tel: +33 (0)4 50 21 18 24borini@borini.com - www.borini.comSAT Buses vehicle rental with driverfor 8 or more peopleTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 25 18www.sat-montblanc.comsat17@wanadoo.fr

mEg busFree shuttles for Rochebrune, Mont d’Arbois, cote 2000, Jaillet, cassioz and except for princesse.

by plaNEAnnecy’s AirportTel: +33 (0)4 50 27 30 06www.annecy.aeroport.frGeneva’s International AirportMegève: 70km - www.gva.chTel Standard: +41 (0)22 717 71 11France Reception OfficeTel: +41 (0)22 798 20 00acc-france@bluewin.chwww.accueil-france.orglyon - Bron’s AirportBusiness AviationTel: +33 (0)4 78 26 81 09www.bron-aeroport.frlyon - Saint Exupéry’sAirportTel: +33 (0)4 26 00 70 07www.lyon.aeroport.frMegève

aIRpoRT lINksBORINI busesTel: +33 (0)4 50 21 18 24borini@borini.com - www.borini.comDirect coach service by requestMont-Blanc helicoptersTel: +33 (0)4 50 92 78 00info@mbh.fr - www.mbh.fr

GRENOBLE

ALBERTVILLE

PARIS587km

LYON

GENÈVE

SALLANCHES

ANNECY

CHAMBÉRY

Annecylake

LEMAN LAKE

CHAMONIX

TORINOMILANO

FRÉJUSTUNNEL

SAINT-EXUPERYAIRPORT

GENEVA-COINTRIN AIRPORT

ZÜRICH 350km

MONT-BLANCTUNNEL

AOSTE

MARSEILLE

VALENCE

NICE

MACON

le BourgetlakeAccess

To mEgèvE

CYAN MAGENTA JAUNE NOIR

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

CARRÉ NOIR - 82, bd des Batignolles - 75017 Paris - FRANCE / Tél. : +33 (0)1 53 42 35 35 / Fax : +33 (0)1 42 94 06 78 / Web : www.carrenoir.com

A NOUS RETOURNER SIGNÉE AVEC VOTRE ACCORD OU VOS CORRECTIONS

JFB

CRÉATION

PRODUCTION

CONSULTANT

CLIENT + QUALITÉ*

ACCORD DATE

MINEFIMIN_08_1926_RdVFrance_CirDoc livré le 04/12/2008

ÉCHELLE 1/1 - FORMAT D’IMPRESSION 100%

TONS RECOMMANDÉS (4)

78

contactsmEgèvE TouRIsm Open every day from 9 am to 7 pm from the 17/12/ 2011 to the 31/03/ 2012Open every day from 9 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6:30 pm in AprilOpen every day, except Sundays and Bank Holidays, from 9 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6:30 pm in October and November until the 17/12 and in May.During the autumn half-term holidays: open on Sundays 23rd and 30th October and Tuesday 1st November from 9am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 6:30 pm.

INfoRmaTIoNsBp. 24 - 74120 MegèveTel : +33 (0)4 50 21 27 28 - Fax : +33 (0)4 50 93 03 09megeve@megeve.com www.megeve.com

accommodaTIoN - avaIlabIlITy Tel. +33 (0)4 50 21 29 52 www.megeve-reservation.com Accommodation brochure available at Megève Tourisme

creditsEdIToR Megève Tourisme EpIc (établissement public à caractère Industriel et commercial) 70, rue Monseigneur conseil - Bp 24 - 74 120 Megève - France REpREsENTaTIvE Marithé crozetpublIcaTIoN dIREcToR Marithé crozetdEsIgN aNd aRTIsTIc pRoducTIoN 360 EuRo RscgchIEf WRITER Flora Bornstein WRITERs pascal Arvin-Bérod, Flora Bornstein, Evelyne périnet-Marquet, Marie christine Hugonot, Johana Trossat, Alexandre Mollard, Béryl Ziegler, Stéphanie pioud.phoTogRaphERs Tristanshu.com, Daniel Durand/DDD, Agence Zoom, lokigraf.com, Jp Noisillier/Nuts.fr, ludovic di Orio, philippe Gandelin, Simon Garnier, Bionnassayimages.com, Thierry Guillot/le dauphiné, Eric Franceschi, Henri Bureau/Gamma.

covER ludovic Di Orio, Robe - Boutique Faith connexion, parure Mauboussin - Boutique chic AltitudeINTERIoR ludovic Di Orio, Boutique Avenue Montagne pRINTEd by FOT Imprimerie - 69881 MEyZIEUIssued July 2011 for winter 2011/20128 500 copies printed - please do not throw into the nature.This document has no contractual value

REspoNsIblE aTTITudE In keeping with Megève’s commitment to protecting the environment, this magazine has been printed with vegetable-based inks, on paper made of 60% recycled pulp and 40% pulp from sustainable managed forests. When you have finished with this copy, please support our efforts by placing it in an appropriate paper recycling bin.

sPoRtsadventure park ............................. 32-61altiport ............................................. 64climbing ...................................... 27-67cross-country ski .................. 26-27-33-63day nursery / activity centre ............... 32diving.......................................... 32-67dogsledding ................................. 32-61fitness .............................................. 67helicopter .................................... 27-64hiking ......................................... 27-61hot-air balloon ................................... 64Ice rinks ....................................... 32-67mountaineering ................................. 27Nautical centre ............................. 32-67off-piste ski ....................................... 27paint ball ..................................... 32-61paragliding ....................................... 64ski ..........................................25-26-27ski lifts ......................................... 16-33ski schools ...............................26-27-32ski touring .................................... 27-61sledges (children) .............................. 33snowboard .................................. 26-27snowshoe .................................... 27-61Telemark ........................................... 27Tennis ............................................... 67Waidzai park big air bag................... 33

cultuRe & leisuRebridge .............................................. 43casino .............................................. 37cinema ............................................. 37cooking lessons ................................. 37heritage ........................................... 43horse sleigh ...................................... 43language courses ......................... 33-43media library ............................... 33-43museums...................................... 33-43painting ............................................ 43spa .........................................54-55-67

INdEx

Tourism partners

P.L.S BOUTIQUES EXCLUSIVES MEGEVE29 Arcades du Mont Blanc +33(0)4.50.21.27.8964 rue Ambroise Martin +33(0)4.50.91.80.43