The joy of saunas, hot tubs & pools
After the past 18 months, there can be few greater pleasures than basking in a sauna, pool or bubbling hot tub and nursing weary limbs after a full-on day on the slopes. Some may also be tempted to indulge in a relaxing massage during their week in the mountains. Of course, we all know how good it makes us feel, but there are health benefits too. VIP SKI names their favourite resorts for saunas, hot tubs and pools.
Bubble in Morzine: Soaking in the tub is the perfect place to unwind after a day skiing, one of the most obvious benefits of a hot tub is to ease tensions. The soothing effect of the warm water and massaging action helps relieve physical, emotional and mental stress. Water supports the body and takes weight off joints and soaking in the tub is known to relax tense muscles, joints and tendons. One study suggests immersion in a hot tub for 10 minutes may lower blood pressure and help metabolism. Research also suggests the relaxation gained from a soak in a hot tub can also promote deeper and more restful sleep. Returning from a day on the pistes, guests can recline by one of the roaring open fireplaces at The Manoir or take in the stunning views of the valley from the outdoor hot tub. Regarded by many as the most beautiful building in Morzine, The Manoir breaks from traditional Savoyard aesthetic, striking a regal outline with metre-thick stone walls and high ceilings. The Manoir was built in 1790 and served as home to the local Notary for two centuries. The chalet’s interior retains influences of its rich history with the addition of luxurious, contemporary amenities such as walk-in showers, roll top baths and cinema room. Just 200 m from the slopes, guests have convenient access to Morzine’s extensive ski area. A week’s stay, arriving 9 January 2022, is priced from £1,419 pp based on two sharing. Price includes chalet-board accommodation (cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, three-course evening meal on six nights and canapé/champagne reception on the first night), coach transfers, and VIP SKI’s chalet service.
VIP SKI (0203 892 4060, www.vip-chalets.com)
Swim in Val d’Isere: Swimming is a full body workout, it may seem like your legs and arms do most of the work, but that’s not the case. Swimming strengthens your core, raises your heart rate, and engages nearly all the muscles in your back. In general, exercise helps relieve anxiety and depression, and that includes swimming. A gentle swim after other exercise is a great way to cool body temperature and can be very refreshing. Simply tread water for 5-10 minutes and you will start to feel refreshed and renewed. Doing dynamic stretches in chest deep water, or varying kicking methods whilst treading water is a great way to loosen up the hips, knees and lower body muscles. Stay at VIP SKI’s The Farmhouse , a divine property located in the heart of Val d’Isère, sleeping 10 people in five delightful en-suite bedrooms, guests can put their feet up in front of the roaring open-fire after a busy day on the slopes and enjoy the flat-screen TV and music system or unwind in the underground spa-suite complete with a small counter-current pool and a hammam. A week’s stay, arriving 9 January 2022, is priced from £1,449 pp based on two sharing. Price includes chalet-board accommodation (cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, three-course evening meal on six nights and canapé/champagne reception on the first night), coach transfers, and VIP SKI’s chalet service.
VIP SKI (0203 892 4060, www.vip-chalets.com
Les Gets for a massage: Massage is perhaps one of the oldest healing traditions. The act of manipulating muscles and other soft tissue to improve wellbeing or health. Research indicates that massages are effective in managing: subacute/chronic low back pain; delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS); anxiety; stress; soft tissue injuries; high blood pressure and insomnia. Some of the physical benefits of massage include reduced muscle tension; improved circulation; reduction of stress hormones; relaxation; increased joint mobility and flexibility; improved skin tone; improved recovery of soft tissue injuries; heightened mental alertness; reduced anxiety and depression. VIP SKI partner with Mountain Rehab for massage services in resort, both offer a choice of treatments including sports massage, deep tissue massage, and relaxing massage. Stay at VIP SKI’s piste side VIP CLUB Altitude Lodge in the main Les Gets ski area of Chavannes, sleeping 22 people in six comfortable bedrooms and kids bunk rooms. Kick back after skiing and enjoy the sauna and outdoor hot tubas well as a massage with incredible views. A week’s stay, arriving 9 January 2022, is priced from £1,319 pp based on two sharing. Price includes chalet-board accommodation (cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, three-course evening meal on six nights and canapé reception on six nights), coach transfers, and VIP SKI’s chalet service.
VIP SKI (0203 892 4060, www.vip-chalets.com
The spa with the ultimate view at 1950 m altitude: Several VIP SKI’s chalets have saunas, tubs and pools but for the whole package head to Bear resort. The new wing of Les Arcs 1950 blends seamlessly into the picturesque high-altitude village and offers a completely new level of comfort with amazing spa facilities including a pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, massage suites and a small gym with mountain views. Positioned on the piste at 1950m the snow-capped alpine backdrop will make a refreshing change from the local gym. and convenience. Stay at VIP SKI’s new piste side resort Bear Lodge with 30 bedrooms. A week’s stay, arriving 9 January 2022, is priced from £1,344 pp based on two sharing. Price includes hotel-board accommodation (cooked breakfast, afternoon tea, three-course evening meal on seven nights and welcome champagne and canapés), coach transfers, and VIP SKI’s hotel service.
VIP SKI (0203 892 4060, www.vip-chalets.com)
