Life After Lockdown!

The clouds are lifting and the sun is starting to shine once again in Val d’Isere. It's been a difficult few months to navigate for everyone, but the support and loyalty we have received from our fantastic guests has been truly precious. Val d’Isere is officially open for summer and our staff are reaping the rewards of life after lockdown. Here is a little insight into resort life now.....

So have things changes in Val d’Isere?  Other than the extra cleaning, precautions and some subtle differences, the ski resort is very much open and as active as ever. The Blizzard Hotel is now re-opening their doors for the summer season, a first in its history. This is Val d’Iseres oldest and most iconic hotel, with its prominent location in the centre of the high street and the heart of the village. With its spacious and tailored facilities, the outdoor swimming pool will also certainly provide another popular option for summer guests; just what’s needed for some, after a mornings skiing on the Piscillas Glacier in Le Fornet. 

The snow quality on the glacier is as good as ever which is always a great indicator for the forthcoming winter fun. With the lifts open since the start of June, this is sure to be busier than usual this summer.

Many bars, restaurants and cafes reopened earlier than usual for dining inside and out, including Le Coin Des Amis; a local hot spot during the winter. If you’ve visited L’Atelier d’Edmond in the past then you will be pleased to know that they have reopened and their apéritifs look as spectacular as ever. Then of course there is the live music, always popular in Val d’Isere, great after a days skiing or hiking to unwind for the evening. 

The question on everyone's lips though is what to expect this winter? Whilst it is hard to fully predict, the opening of Val d’Isere for the summer season has given us some insight into what post lockdown life in a ski resort could look like.

Here are some of the key things to expect:
* Luxury catered chalets and hotels look set to open as normal but with extra cleaning services.
* There could be an increased demand for catered chalets owing to the privacy they offer. 
* It’s likely that restaurants will only take reserved bookings and run at a reduced capacity thus booking lunches and dinners will be even more important. 
* Indoor clubs may also only operate at a reduced capacity or not at all. It is not yet know what will happen for outdoor venues. 
* A reduction in the number of people on cable cars and gondolas which could mean longer wait times during peak periods. 
* Greater demand for private transfers or accommodation with parking spaces as more visitors are likely to self drive. 

Wherever you spend your summer this year it’s safe to say that we will all be enjoying the increased daily freedom and appreciate more than ever the joys that holidays bring. Spending quality time with family and friends has never been more valued.