When asked to return to the French Alps to experience another ‘home from home’ experience with Ski Beat I could hardly say no.
This time, located higher up in La Plagne, I'd experience another fully hosted chalet by the wonderful in-house team and hit the snowy slopes once again.
In 2018 I stayed in Les Arcs and spent the entire week learning how to ski - this time I could re-apply that knowledge and get skiing as soon as possible.
Arriving back in paradise
A transfer from Lyon Airport via coach was just over three hours so allowed us time to catch-up on any missing sleep after our early-morning flight.
We arrived at Plagne 1800 and were greeted by a team of Ski Beat staff who were on hand and ready to help us move into our new home for the week.
I stayed in the beautiful Chalet Florence which boasts a stunning view across the slopes, a shop directly opposite and a five minute walk - or free bus - to the nearest ski lift.
We spent the first day learning our surroundings and explored some of the beautiful walking routes and lively bars La Plagne had to offer.
Getting back into the skis
One the second day our ski passes were activated so we wasted no time boarding the bus and headed for the nearest available lift.
I'd by lying if I said it wasn't hard for the first five or ten minutes, but much like riding a bike it was really easy to get back into the flow of skiing.
La Plagne has so many flat routes to try out for beginners and plenty of steep hard runs for the thrill-seekers - and of course there is always off-piste.
After a hard first day on the slopes we returned back to Chalet Florence and were once again greeted by our hosts who had prepared a home-made cake and baguettes.
Each day, the in-house Ski Beat hosts would make a new cake and will cater to everyone's needs, so those with certain allergens had their own cake to enjoy.
Where it all began
The third day saw our group ski over to where it all began in Plan Peisey. I re-visited the slopes where I learned to ski two years ago.
It was refreshing to re-do all of the runs I remember and was excited to find out Les Arcs had made a new edition to the resort in the shape of a new 'fun run'.
Our chalet hosts in 2018 were Sue, Simon and Gerrard in Chalet Bayona - we loved them so much and they made us feel so at home we organised to meet them again.
Skiing into La Plagne, Sue and Simon came to visit us at one of the many bars and restaurants in Plagne Centre and we all enjoyed a much-needed catch up.
Fun off the skis
Midway through the week out chalet hosts told us about a live music night at Bar La Mine which was just meters away from us.
Our group headed down and enjoyed a whole night of entertainment and gave us all the chance to meet new people and speak to locals.
The atmosphere was great and we all had an amazing night - so much so that we returned to La Mine at least five more times before coming home.
Time to relax
Returning once again to our chalet after another hard day on the slopes, mobile massage providers Massage Me paid us a visit.
With prices starting at just 49 Euros, Massage Me will come to your room to help you wind down and relax with a catalogue of different massages and techniques.
If massages aren't your thing, just sat in Chalet Florence with the log fire burning and a stunning view across the valley will definitely put you in a good mood.
Taking the day off
Taking a day off skiing we decided to head down the hill to France's one and only bobsleigh track where the BMW World Cup was being held.
The huge free event allowed on-lookers to get up close with the track and cheer on their team as they competed at high-speeds in the skeleton competition.
We were quick to spot Team GB who thanked us for coming down to show our support and gave us all the info we needed to spot them on the track.
A rep informed us the best spot to watch was at corner 16, conveniently placed was a food stand and (more importantly) a bar.
In summary
Returning back to the French Alps was on my bucket list and thanks to Ski Beat, once again, I'm able to tick it off.
Our chalet hosts really looked after us and made sure we had the most memorable and safe trip possible and made sure to point us in all the right directions.
The food was amazing and everyone and their needs were catered to, no matter what you are always able to find something you'll enjoy.
FACT FILE:
A week's fully hosted ski holiday to the vast La Plagne ski area, part of the 425km of pistes that make up the Paradiski region, costs from £499pp during 2020.
The price includes return Gatwick flights (Manchester + £20), transfers, seven nights accommodation in a homely, hosted chalet, with cooked breakfast, homemade afternoon cakes and tea, three-course evening meals with wine (6 nights) and the services of a friendly chalet host.
A week's stay at the Chalet Florence costs from £599pp. Contact Ski Beat on 01273 855100 or visit: www.skibeat.co.uk
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