Who is this yoga & snow holiday for? Active people who enjoy yoga, mountains, snow sports and cosy winter vibes. Suitable for all skiing and snowboarding levels.
Is it suitable for beginners? Yes. The local ski school welcomes beginners and intermediates.
Can advanced skiers come? Yes. Confident skiers can join group skiing or book off-piste guides.
Is it suitable for people who only want yoga? Yes. It also works as a standalone yoga retreat with an authentic, undiluted practice.
Is meditation and pranayama or breath work included? Yes. Morning sessions include meditation and pranayama.
Is it suitable for individuals and couples? Yes. You can choose a shared twin or double room, or upgrade to a single room.
Can non-skiers join? Yes. Non-skiing partners can join the yoga sessions.
Can non-yoga partners come? Yes. Partners who only want to ski are welcome.
What is the accommodation like? A 19th-century farmstead chalet with character, comfort and local food.
Is everything optional? Yes. Ski, rest, practise yoga or mix your days however you like.
TRAVEL
How do I get to Villard Reculas? You can travel by train, drive, or fly.
What is the train option? Take the TGV from Paris to Grenoble, then the Transaltitude bus to the village.
Can I drive? Yes. It is 9 hours from Calais, 2 hours from Lyon, and just over 1 hour from Grenoble.
What about flying? Fly to Grenoble for arranged taxi pickups. Lyon connects easily to Grenoble by bus.
ACCOMMODATION
Where is the chalet? In Villard Reculas above the Alpe d’Huez ski area, 1 hour from Grenoble at 1470m.
Is it snow-sure in January? Yes.
When is check-in and check-out? Check-in is from 2pm. Check-out is by 10am.
Can I drop luggage if I arrive early? Yes. You can leave your bags and explore.
What room types are available? Most rooms have en-suite or private bathrooms. The attic rooms share a bathroom and separate loo and have extra living space.
Is there a sauna? Yes.
Are safes and hairdryers provided? Yes.
Is there WiFi? Yes.
Can I book massages? Yes. Massages are available with a local therapist.
FOOD
What is the food like? Hearty vegetarian half-board. Breakfast and a three-course dinner, plus afternoon tea and cake.
Can you cater for special diets? Yes. Most dietary needs can be accommodated.
Is alcohol allowed? Yes, in moderation. An honesty bar is available. Drinks are not included in the retreat price.
Are toiletries provided? Shower gel and hand soap are provided.
SKI HIRE
Can I hire equipment in the village? Yes. There is one sports shop with full hire options.
How much is hire? Depends on the level of equipment. Pre-book online.
SKI SCHOOL
Can I book lessons? Yes. We work closely with ESF Villard Reculas.
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
What is the ski area like? Alpe d’Huez offers high-altitude pistes for all levels and plenty of off-piste options.
Are there other snow activities? Yes. Back-country skiing, snowshoeing and telemark are available.
YOGA
Do I need prior yoga experience? Some experience is recommended.
What is the yoga style? A mix of Sivananda, Ashtanga and Iyengar influences. Spiritual, flowing and supportive for skiers.
Do I need to bring equipment? No. All yoga equipment is provided.
Where is the yoga studio? About 50 metres from the chalet.
How often is yoga held? Four morning sessions of 75 minutes and four evening restorative sessions of 90 minutes.
LOCAL AREA
What else can I do besides skiing? Walking, swimming, hiking, snowshoeing, tobogganing, husky rides and biking.
Is there a village shop? Yes. Open daily 08:00 to 19:00.
Is there a pharmacy? Yes. In nearby Alpe d’Huez.
Is there an ATM? Yes. Available in town.
How much cash should I bring? Enough for lunches, hot chocolates, the honesty bar, massages, dinners out and tips. Taxi payments are in cash on arrival.
TYPICAL SCHEDULE
What does a day look like?
07:30 Meditation, pranayama and morning practice
09:00 Breakfast
10:00 Skiing
17:15 Yoga
19:30 Dinner
