consensio - your luxury lifestyle magazine

Y O U R L U X U R Y L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

C O N S E N S I O H O L I D AY S . C O . U K

C O N S E N S I O

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Welcome

Luxury is such a subjective word and is used to describe anything from food and drink through to stunning chalets and super yachts.

The official definition is: ...the state of great comfort and elegance or a pleasure obtained only rarely.

However, we all lead such busy lives these days that time itself has become a luxury - having the time available to do what you want to do with the people you want to do it with.

At Consensio we aim to give back some of this precious commodity by organising and arranging every conceivable detail of your holiday for you.

We anticipate your needs and make things happen to ensure you get maximum enjoyment and relaxation out of the time you spend with us.

Our unique lifestyle magazine provides a taste of what you can expect from Consensio by sharing stories about some of our favourite people, as well as giving you an insight into the luxury accommodation, services and destinations on offer.

Travel with Consensio and you will find that time magically appears - and you can spend it with friends and family doing the things you love.

Ceri Tinley

Managing Director and Co-founder Consensio Holidays

Editor

Clare Meaney

For all media and marketing enquiries please contact Clare on 07941 568679

Or email: [email protected]

Contributors

Richard Meaney

James Devine

Holly Carr

Hanneke Maljaars

Yulia Titovets

The Chalet Photographers

Jake Leighfield

Design & Print

Anthony Thornley Design

Mountain Marketing Ltd

L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

E X C E P T I O N A L P R O P E R T I E S I E X C E P T I O N A L S E R V I C E

C H A L E T S I V I L L A S I Y A C H T S

9 REECE MEWS, SOUTH KENSINGTON

LONDON, SW7 3HE

+44 (0) 203 393 0833

[email protected]

WWW. CONSENSIOHOLIDAYS.CO.UK

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3-5 Welcome and Contents

6 - 7 Comedian gets serious about vodka

8 - 11 La Folie Douce makes its mark

12 - 13 My perfect day

16 - 17 Wine expert opens up his cellar

18 - 21 The creation of an award winning chalet

22 -23 Mountain menus

24 - 26 For the love of chocolate

28 - 29 Consensio and Lacroix unite

30 - 33 Fashion

34 - 35 The extravagance of Perrier-Jout

36 - 38 Taking the kids

40 - 41 Its a dogs life

42 - 43 Dates for your diary

44 - 45 How to ski powder

46 - 47 Let the children play

48 - 49 Winter wellbeing

51 - 53 The Wow factor

54 - 55 The lighter side of luxury

56 - 57 Latest gadgets and gizmos

58 - 59 Skiing for women - no men allowed!

60 - 61 W Hotel welcomes large groups

62 - 63 zai skis - a modern day icon

64 - 65 Turning a dream chalet into reality

66 - 68 Get fit for skiing

70 - 71 Sail away aboard a super yacht

72 - 73 Living it up in St Tropez

74 The Alpine challenge

Contents


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DUE to its inclusion into almost every cocktail on the menu, and its willingness to combine with a myriad of potential mixers, vodka has become

increasingly popular over the last few years.

The choice of vodkas available to us today can

sometimes seem a little overwhelming. Within

this confusing plethora of similar and generic

products, there is, however, one particular

vodka that stands out from the crowd.

With its insanely cool bottle, which comes in

the form of a glass skull handcrafted in Milan,

Crystal Head Vodka has developed an almost

cult-like following since its release in 2008.

But its not all about looks.

There is no denying that the eccentric and

eye-catching container has contributed

to the brands appeal, but it is the pristine

flavour created by Crystal Heads meticulous

distillation process that has taken the vodka

world by storm.

From the outset comedian Dan Aykroyd

and artist John Alexander were looking to

create an ultra-pure premium spirit, and with

Crystal Head Vodka it would appear that

they have achieved exactly that.

Highest quality peaches and cream corn are

distilled four times into a neutral grain, gluten-

free spirit and blended with unspoiled water

from Newfoundland, Nova Scotia. The liquid

is then filtered seven times, three of which

are through layers of semi-precious crystals

known as Herkimer Diamond Crystals.

Crystal Head Vodka contains no additives

Crystal clearHave you heard the one about the comedian who went into the vodka making business...?

Nothing is added to enhance or mask the taste.


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no glycerol, citrus oils or sugars. Nothing is

added to enhance or mask the taste.

So how on earth did Ray from Ghostbusters

start making vodka you may well ask?

It would appear that it was something

to do with his decision to import tequila

into Canada, which somehow led to his

acquisition of four vineyards in Niagara,

which in turn led to his search for a pure,

additive free vodka. When he couldnt find

one that met his exacting standards, he

decided to produce one himself; so the story

goes.

However it came about, it seems that

Aykroyd came into the vodka making

business for all the right reasons. He wanted

to produce as pure a vodka as possible and

at the same time provide his customers

with the most enjoyable vodka drinking

experience possible.

His passion for producing high quality

libations and a commitment to incredibly

high standards has ensured that Crystal

Head Vodka has become a brand renowned

for its additive free purity, making it the

perfect blank canvas for mixologists all over

the world.

Aykroyds inclination to make his vodka

kosher came not from direct religious

necessity (being a catholic himself), but

from a fondness for the Jewish community

which developed during his visits to Israeli

vineyards, and through a close affinity

with the Jewish community in the world of

comedy.

Aykroyds mantra emulates an almost

altruistic notion that his product is made to

be enjoyed.

Responding to the theft of 21, 000 bottles of

his vodka from a warehouse in 2011, Aykroyd

said that he was at least happy that some

consumers will be afforded the opportunity

of tasting it at significantly lower than retail

price.

He may have lost some of his vodka, but at

least he didnt lose his sense of humour.

www.crystalheadvodka.com


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Brand awarenessThe lively atmosphere at La Folie Douce restaurants and aprs ski bars has seen them make a big impact in a very short space of time. Founder Luc Reversade explains the secret of their success.

Y ou are currently in Val dIsre, Meribel, Val Thorens and Alpe dHuez, with St Gervais/Megve opening next. Have you always wanted to

open La Folie Douce in St Gervais/Megve?

The ski area is beautiful. There is great

variety and the setting is fabulous. The

villages of St Gervais and Megve each

have real charm, unique culture and a

tradition of mountain hospitality. The

fun element has always been part of

the local DNA. We were offered the

opportunity to purchase the restaurant

located at the top of Mont Joux,

overlooking the slopes of St Gervais

and Mont dArbois, opposite Mont

Blanc, and we threw ourselves in to this

new adventure willingly.


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What is it that makes La Folie Douce so

successful?

Our intention is that each of our Folie

Douce venues will bring together a full

spectrum of clients, irrespective of age,

style or budget. We want everyone to find

an attractive well run venue, good food,

and if they are up to it, a great aprs ski

experience that will round off a day on

the slopes with a smile. Each Folie Douce

should be original and authentic. Whilst

they all have a shared culture, each Folie

Douce should develop its own personality

through its setting, its cuisine and its

resident musicians and performers.

Do you see La Folie Douce as an aprs ski

bar with a restaurant, or a restaurant with

an aprs ski bar?

Its both. A Folie Douce is made up of two

restaurants. La Fruitire - a Brasserie -

and la Petite Cuisine de La Folie Douce

- a self-service restaurant. In both cases

the food is prepared on site using fresh

produce which, whenever possible, is

locally sourced. The challenge for our

large teams is to be able to perform at

altitudes of over 2000m. For aprs ski

continued on next page...


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we have resident musicians who perform

each afternoon on the terrace. Then there

is a cabaret followed by an aprs ski

party with good music to end a great

days skiing in style.

Do you think French aprs ski is more

sophisticated than Austrian aprs ski?!

We share a similar culture with the

Austrian aprs ski a spontaneous party

that brings people together. The musical

style and ambiance may be different

- it is often more traditional and local

in Austria - but the important thing, in

Austria as in France, is that it is genuine,

generous and done with feeling. This is

the perfect recipe.

Do you have any plans to open La Folie

Douce outside of France?

We are actively

working on this and

hope to make an

announcement in the

next few months. We

want La Folie Douce

to develop fantastic

projects in the worlds

top ski resorts.

It sounds like you have

plans for worldwide

expansion and global

domination!

We want each Folie

Douce to reflect the

Folie Douce family

values - those on

which the first Folie

Douce was built.

Our expansion can

continue as long as

each new Folie Douce

develops its own style,

colour and personality

using the combined

expertise and wealth

of experience of our producers, suppliers,

kitchen and service staff, performers and

clients. By doing this we can provide work,

camaraderie and memorable experiences

for all. Each Folie Douce must have its

own soul.

Can you imagine a time when La Folie

Douce will be in every well known ski

resort in the world?

We are prepared to set up in every major

international ski resort which captures

our heart. A new Folie Douce is always

the end product of a long process visits,

imagination and conceptual design. The

objective is not the number of Folie

Douce venues but the quality of each

venue and its standing in the host resort.

What inspires you?

Our clients! We listen to them, we watch

them, both in our venues and outside.

We travel a lot in the mountains and

to places that attract and interest us,

be it renowned worldwide hotspots or

discreet, select venues in the middle of

nowhere.

What is your proudest moment?

We feel proud when our clients leave

a table or terrace feeling happy after

spending time with us. Then we know we

have done a good job.

What is the best thing about your job?

Participating in the happiness of others

- even at a modest level! This is what


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motivates us every day in the work we do.

Do you come from a long line of

entrepreneurs?

I am the son of school teachers and a

former ski instructor. However, we all have

an entrepreneurial spirit that drives us to

continually review the development of

the existing Folie Douce, the future Folie

Douce and also other exciting projects

about which we hope to be able to say

more in the near future.

www.lafoliedouce.com

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My perfect day in Val dIsreFormer British champion Chemmy Alcott may have hung up her ski racing boots but her love for the mountains is still as strong as ever. Here she describes how she would spend a perfect day on the slopes of Val dIsre.

Who would you spend your perfect day with

in Val dIsre?

My new husband Dougie Crawford and my two

brothers. We are all speed demons and love to

challenge ourselves, so it would be the perfect

mountain crew.

What kind of accommodation do you prefer?

Obviously it is lovely to stay in the lap of luxury,

but a good ski holiday is about who you are

with and how great the snow is - although a

post ski hot tub/ice bath combo definitely

helps those tired legs.

What would you choose for breakfast?

I love breakfasts. I have my staples - my green

machine smoothie which I love, and my bottle

of Udos Oil which is added to scrambled eggs

and smoked salmon with lots of coffee.

Do you have a favourite run in Val dIsre?

Le Face is particularly daunting and

challenging, but it doesnt exactly make you

feel like a skiing hero as its never pretty skiing

down a vertical ice pitch. I love the OK piste on

La Daille with its great undulating terrain but

watch out for those blind rollers.

When you and Dougie ski together do you

get competitive or just cruise around?

As weve matured we have reached a perfect

balance between free ski competition, respect

and mutual admiration, which I know sounds


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mushy. We are both very different in how

we ski. I like to flow more through the turns

whereas Dougie attacks the top of every turn.

Where would you have lunch and what would

you eat?

La Peau de Vache is one of my favourite places

and now I have retired from racing I would

indulge in the duck burger but probably with

salad as I wouldnt want to go into a carb food

coma and miss out on the afternoon skiing.

Where might you enjoy a spot of aprs?

Theres still a bit of the former racer in me and

so while most people head for the bar I would

take a dip in the hot tub and roll around in the

snow every so often to stimulate circulation

before hopping back in the tub.

Youd still enjoy an aprs ski drink, wouldnt

you?

Ive just discovered a new blend of British

whisky called The One which is my drink of

choice at the moment.

What would you do to relax before dinner?

In an ideal world a Thai massage would be

fantastic.

Where might you have dinner and what would

you eat?

A meat and cheese fondue at La Corniche.

Would your perfect day include anything

else?

Well in a perfect world I would throw in some

skydiving, sunset surf and beach volleyball!

But a good day in the powder with my boys

is just great.

Is there any particular reason why you would

choose to spend your perfect day in Val

dIsre?

There are so many former British ski racers who

base themselves there, that you will always

have some great chair lift catch-up sessions!

What do you love most about Val dIsre?

It has everything - the steeps, the hero feeling

slopes, the powder, the restaurants - a little

slice of winter heaven.

C O N S E N S I O H O L I D A Y S . C O . U K 13

PERRIER-JOUT, THE ALLURING CHAMPAGNE

Since its foundation in 1811, the champagne house Perrier-Jout has crafted elegant, f loral wines of rare f inesse with a Chardonnay hallmark.

The elegance of the cuvees echoes that of the Art Nouveau anemones adorning the Belle Epoque bottle and offers moments of pure delight and beauty.

www.perrier-jouet.com

P L E A S E D R I N K R E S P O N S I B LYPho

togr

aphy

by

War

ren

& N

ick

Beauty_220x110_ConsensioMag.indd 1 16/07/14 13:48

Fine WineAfter 10 years of running a business that stocks more than 7,000 bottles consisting of 600 varieties, its fair to say that expert sommelier Antoine Veuriot knows a thing or two about wine. But like most things in life, its not what you know, but who you know.

WWine is very much part of the art of French living and the majority of Consensio guests are happy to embrace it with great

enthusiasm.

The cellars in the luxury ski chalets are

extremely well stocked with an excellent

range of house wines, but if guests have any

special requests, no matter how rare, wine

expert Antoine Veuriot, proprietor of La

Cave sur le comptoir in Val dIsre is on hand

to track them down.

Antoine is not only extremely knowledgeable

about wine but he is also very well connected

in the world of wine production.

In recent years global wine consumption has

been on an upward march, with booming

demand from the US and China driving this

astronomical rise. Some wine producers

have found themselves so overwhelmed by

this explosion of international demand for

rare wines that they have had to become

very selective about whom to sell their

wines to.

In most cases they have chosen to continue

to sell their wines to loyal customers who

bought the wine before it became popular.

Generally, the only way to experience these

rare wines is to either buy them from a

professional wine merchant who has been

allocated an annual allowance of the wine, or

to drink them in the worlds finest restaurants

where the wineries willingly supply their

outstanding wines to complement dishes

created by the worlds best chefs.

This system of allocation means that the

rarest wines are saved purely for insiders

who have the necessary connections, such

as our very own Antoine Veuriot.

Antoine is proud to be able to offer

Consensio guests some of these rare wines

to accompany the exquisite food created by

the companys talented chefs.

He will work with them, and the chalet

mangers, to ensure that tasting these wines

will be a truly unforgettable experience.

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QUIZEveryone likes to think of themselves as a bit of a wine expert these days, but how much do

we really know? Test your knowledge with our wine quiz.

1. What line of latitude is Bordeaux closest to?

a. 35 b. 45 c. 55

2. What is the flower depicted on a bottle of Perrier Jout Champagne?

a. Anemone b. Aster c. Azalea

3. Which country is the wine producing area of Hawkes Bay in?

a. Australia b. Chile c. New Zealand

4. Which is one of the types of grape used in Cte Rtie?

a. Calitor b. Syrah/Shiraz c. Brun Fourca

5. How many litres does a Nebuchadnezzar bottle hold?

a. 15 b. 6 c. 3

6. Which wine producing region of France does Meursault come from?

a. Bordeaux b. Provence c. Burgundy

7. In which country would you find the Rioja appellation?

a. France b. Italy c. Spain

8. Which country produces the greatest volume of wine per annum?

a. Germany b. France c. Australia

9. Which country is the Mosel Valley in?

a. Germany b. France c. Italy

10. Which country is the grape variety Grner Veltliner associated with?

a. Austria b. France c. Switzerland

* Answers at bottom of page

WINE QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. 45; 2. Anemone; 3. New Zealand; 4. Syrah/Shiraz; 5. 15; 6. Burgundy; 7. Spain; 8. Italy; 9. Germany; 10. Austria.

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And now for something completely different


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And now for something completely different

Marco Polo in Val dIsre was voted, Best Ski Chalet in France at the World Ski Awards 2013. We spoke to Jean Bernard Montel to find out how he and his family went about creating award winning accommodation and to discover a little bit more about what makes Marco Polo so unique.

When you first started work on Marco

Polo, were you aiming to create the best

ski chalet in France?

When we first began building Marco Polo,

we simply wanted to create something

that was unique. Our inspiration came from

the silk route and the art of adventure, so

we started buying antiques from many

different countries. The primary objective

was to create a private museum within a

chalet. Our goal was not to create Frances

number one ski chalet, but to produce

something completely different.

Why did you choose Val dIsre?

We love the spirit of Val dIsre as the

town itself has real history. Plus the ski

area is vast and is really well managed and

maintained. Due to the variety of slopes

which face in all different directions,

there is always somewhere with excellent

conditions no matter what the weather.

What makes Val dIsre so special?

It is the mixture of people from all over the

world that makes Val so special. People

from all walks of life can enjoy a holiday in

Val dIsre.

How long did the project take to complete?

The construction period lasted two years,

but acquiring the artefacts for the chalet

was a much longer process, taking more

than five years. Marco Polo is forever

changing - the collections continue to

grow and the chalet continues to evolve.

This year we are working on a rain water

therapy massage area.

Where did you source the materials?

The artefacts are sourced from our travels

around the world, from our friends and



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from fashion shows. The materials for the

chalet itself are sourced from local Alpine

wood which is prepared on site.

Tell us about the Christian Lacroix tile

design?

In another life we worked in the clothing

business and we still have some strong

relationships within the industry. Our

mosaic partner Sicis suggested a unique

collaboration with Christian Lacroix and

it is this creation that is now adorning the

walls in our pool area.

Which is your favourite room in Marco

Polo?

My favourite room is the professional

kitchen. I like to stop by, say hi to the chef

and see what he is preparing for the day. I

love to watch him preparing food with the

Pacojet!

You must have been pleased with the end

result?

We are never completely satisfied, but

people seem to like what we have done.

The antiques seem to get better and better

throughout the season. The funny thing

with this chalet is that it gets better with

age, just like a fine wine

Is there anything you would change or do

differently with the benefit of hindsight?

We are in the process of planning and

installing a new, larger professional kitchen

over the next year or two. We understand

the importance of amazing food. It is much

more than just a basic human need - it is a

skill, an art and a knowledge that we can

share with the guests. We would like to

create a larger kitchen so that our guests

can spend time there learning from our

chef.

Were you surprised when Marco Polo was

awarded the title of Best Ski Chalet in

France?


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When you look at the competition, you

can clearly see the difference. Lets take

the pool area as an example. Most chalets

in the competition have a nice swimming

pool with some wood or aluminium chairs,

a television, a Jacuzzi and perhaps a sauna.

In order to create our pool, we took

a 150-year-old ceiling from a Souk in

Morocco. We discovered that the best tone

to complement this within the pool would

be yellow, so we asked Sicis to produce a

24-carat gold mosaic.

The real difference is the time spent on the

development. Instead of creating the place

in a month, we took a year to properly

create the chalet.

So you believe Marco Polo deserved this

title?

Marco Polo is in a league of its own.

Our discerning guests have a true

understanding of quality and really

appreciate the sumptuous environment we

have created for them to enjoy within our

world class ski chalet.


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Mountain fayreFood is very much a part of the experience when staying in the Alps and the list of great places to dine both on piste and in resort is endless. Here are a few of our favourites.

Courchevel

Chabichou

With two Michelin Guide stars, you cannot

go wrong with Le Chabichou. Offering the

finest of French gastronomy, classic dishes

are crafted using local produce in innovative

ways with flavours subtle yet refined. Each

dish is executed with precision and finesse

and the dcor combines rustic charm with

regal splendour. You also have the options of

dining on the sunny terrace offering scenic

views or the table dhtes in the kitchen

where you observe an enchanting ballet of

chefs at the ovens.

Val dIsre

Partenariat avec lAtelier dEdmond

Michelin star lAtelier dEdmond is where you

can expect to find perfection with a cuisine

that engages the senses, full of twists and

somersaults. Dishes combine seasonal

ingredients with bold imagination and are

complemented by the commendable wine

list that is carefully explained to you by the

sommelier. The dcor is cosy chic, a charming

nostalgia with old tools and oil lamps. The

warmth of interiors makes for a welcoming

atmosphere, with hospitable staff that make

you feel at home.

Meribel

La Bouitte (St Martin)

La Bouitte undoubtedly has that certain je

ne sais quoi that makes a great restaurant.

Offering an experience like no other, the

focus on quality and freshness is evident

in the imaginatively divine dishes. The

wine list is superb and complement the

food exquisitely. We recommend the chefs

surprises menus which use the produce of

the season in ways that enthral the senses

and leaves you with a memorable experience.

A striking establishment where the art of

French gastronomy is made ethereal, it is

impossible not to love this place.


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Les Gets

Ferme de Montagne

Light, perfectly flavoured and outstanding

in quality, every dish at Ferme de Montagne

is wonderful. With a strong commitment

to exceptional food, health and well-being,

menus change daily and always use local

produce to create light, innovative French

dishes that will have you frequenting again

and again. Nothing is left to chance in making

your experience memorable; the chefs are

even happy to cook your favourite dishes for

you on request! With exquisite wine, gorgeous

interiors and legendary staff, this restaurant

will never cease to be amazing.

Megve

Flocons du Sel

In Megve, Chef Emmanuel Renaut at

Flocons de Sel serves a cuisine all his own;

delectable, imaginative and engaging.

The way in which the finest ingredients

are sought is wonderfully quaint, coming

from elderly home distillers to classic

lake fisherman. All dishes are crafted with

imagination and are superb matches for the

rich nectars found on the extensive wine

list. The dcor is calm and sophisticated,

surrounded by alpine mountains that make

a soothing ambiance where the experience

cuisine art is optimized.

1 Limoncello Parfait

2 Loin of Lamb Parsley Crust

3 Seared Cod

4 Pan Fried Cannon of Lamb

1 2

3

4


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For the love of chocolate

Consensio invited a panel of volunteers to taste lots of samples in pursuit of the perfect chocolate for its chalets. It was a tough job but somebody had to do it. It didnt take long before it was unanimously decided that Amelia Ropes award-winning chocolate was THE ONE. Here Amelia explains how she became an expert chocolate maker.


C O N S E N S I O

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Where did you grow up?

Layer Marney in Essex.

What was your favourite subject at school?

History, History of Art and Cookery. I

loathed Maths!

What was your favourite chocolate as a child?

Dare I admit it? Galaxy, Milky Way, Texan

Bar and the Milky Bar kid!

Where did you get your entrepreneurial

spirit from?

My paternal grandmother was Hope

Ransome. The Ransomes bought the

patent for lawnmowers and built it to be a

global brand which held a Royal Warrant.

They designed the Ransome YL plough,

which was the most successful and efficient

plough of the industrial revolution.

Her grandfather, Edward Packard, was

the first person to produce fertiliser on

a commercial scale, and his company

eventually amalgamated with Fisons. My

grandmother was a second cousin of the

author, Arthur Ransome. My great great

grandmothers uncle was James Wilson

who founded the Economist, was financial

secretary to the Treasury under Palmerston

and Peel and was the First Finance Minister

for India, where he introduced income tax

for the first time.

My fathers father, Humphrey, had a

successful shipping company which

transported corn from Suffolk to London

before the railways were invented. He also

owned a brewery called Ropes Ales and

Stouts which later sold out to Adnams of

Southwold.

Was being a chocolatier a lifelong

ambition?

I can say honestly, it wasnt. I always knew

from an early age that I wanted to run

my own business and work for myself.

Chocolate came into my life by chance after

I appeared on Masterchef. Now chocolate

and I are joined at the hip!

I have only ever done one five-day chocolate

course in Valrhona, Tain LHermitage. I

create and blend all of my recipes in my

Chocolate came into my life by chance after I appeared on Masterchef. Now chocolate and I are joined at the hip!



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mind. Not being professionally trained means

that some work and some dont!

I know its hard to choose, but which flavour

is your favourite?

Recently I have been devouring Dark Coffee

Bean and Dark Raspberry. I am about to

launch a new flavour which I imagine will

become my favourite. Each flavour is created

because I am craving it, so at some stage

each one has been my favourite. But my taste

buds are fickle - it really depends on what I

am craving that day.

Who or what inspires you?

Mosiacs, stained glass windows, architecture,

music, reading and travel - especially Latin

America.

I was also inspired by Cath Kidston and how

she built her brand from a small business to a

global success, as well as Angus Thirlwell, the

founder of Hotel Chocolat.

What is your proudest moment?

There are a few

Ewan Venters seeing my chocolate bars and

selecting them for Selfridges which was the

first store I ever supplied.

Winning four awards from the Academy of

Chocolate (I am now on the committee)

Visiting No 10 Downing Street to meet with

the Head of the GREAT campaign and UKTi.

Do you have plans for worldwide expansion

and global domination?!

Oh yes! I have started exporting to India and

am about to export to China and possibly even

Japan. They approached me, so how could I

say no? I would love to do it for the brand, not

really from a materialistic viewpoint. I want to

salute the man who opened the doors for me

to create chocolate bars - Patrick Reeves

(co-founder of sofa.com) who sadly

passed away this year and is

deeply missed.

What is the best thing

about your job?

Eating the chocolate I

want to eat, meeting the

most incredible people

I would never have dreamed of meeting,

being my own boss, creating new recipes

and designing new products.

www.ameliarope.com

#loveskiing

follow us onwww.ellis-brigham.com

London: Covent Garden, Westfield London, Westfield Stratford, Kensington High St & St.Pauls One New Change Cambridge Lion Yard Xscape Milton Keynes Bristol Tamworth Snowdome Manchester Chester Liverpool Xscape Castleford/Leeds Glasgow intu Braehead Aviemore Fort William

The North Face Stores London: Covent Garden, St.Pauls One New Change, Westfield London & Westfield Stratford Cambridge Lion Yard Sheffield Meadowhall

27 SPECIALIST SHOPS NATIONWIDE

New Catalogues Out September

Consesio:Layout 1 11/8/14 10:27 Page 1


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A first for Christian Lacroix and ConsensioConsensio is one of the first companies in the world to host the new Christian Lacroix Incarnation range in its luxury ski chalets this winter. Clare Meaney explains how this partnership came about.

W hen Consensio started a quest to find a perfect range of cosmetics befitting the luxurious bathrooms in its chalets and the

luxury lifestyles of discerning guests the

company turned to Luxury Hotel Cosmetics

for advice.

Their brief was to help identify a fabulous

fragrance with contemporary style and a

velvet touch.

As luck would have it, they found that

Christian Lacroix had recently launched

Incarnation, the luxury perfume companys

first ever range of cosmetics designed

specifically for the hotel industry.

This made Consensios decision making

process a whole lot easier.

Ever since the creation of the couture house

in 1987, Christian Lacroix has blossomed

into a flamboyant luxury lifestyle brand

whose style is unique, exuberant and

baroque.

The Incarnation range, with its Eygalieres

fragrance, takes you right into the heart of

Christian Lacroix.

Named after a city in Provence-Alpes-Cte

dAzur, Eygalieres is a green, citrus woody

blend reminiscent of an orchard of fig and

lemon trees.


C O N S E N S I O

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Its scientific name dianthus roughly

translates as flower of love or flower of

the gods, and has come to be associated

with fascination, distinction and love.

The Incarnation range was created as a

result of Mr Lacroixs love for the South of

France, from where he originates.

Consensio is very proud to be one of the

first companies in the world to host the

Christian Lacroix Incarnation range, which

will be available in all of our luxury ski

chalets this winter.

We are confident that our guests will enjoy

the Incarnation range, and that their days

will be filled with joie de vivre.

A rough translation is flower of love or flower of the gods and has come to be associated with fascination, distinction and love.

C O N S E N S I O

Slope styleHolly Carr takes a look at the new seasons ski wear for women from luxury brands Killy, Canada Goose, Mountain Force and Toni Sailer to bring you the key trends and what you should be wearing this winter.

3The Mountain Force quilted Chip Hooded Insulation Jacket


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Y OU are staying in a luxury ski chalet, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery the world has to offer - who says you cant

have the wardrobe to match?

It is a long dispelled myth that skiwear has

to be bulky and unflattering and thanks

to the newest of fabric innovations, you

can look stylish on the slopes without

sacrificing your comfort. Even better,

todays luxury ski wear is not only for

the pistes, it fits right in at the coolest of

mountain bars too.

While styles and silhouettes remain

relatively constant, each season we are

treated to a new colour palette. In recent

seasons we have seen everything from

lime green and pop pinks to tangerine

and turquoise. This season heralds a

more sophisticated palette based around

core colours such as black, slate and

olive enhanced by deep burgundy pinks,

ocean blues and accents of amber.

One key piece that should be the staple

of any ski wardrobe is the down-filled

puffer coat. A firm favourite with off

duty models and celebrities, it is an item

no longer reserved for dog walkers and

soccer mums.

In the past this item has been all about

the function and little about style but

this season there are a number of chic

options to choose from.

1 The Elie Fur Jacket from Toni Sailer

1The Toni Sailer Elie Fur Jacket



C O N S E N S I O

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(www.tonisailer.com) will be a particular

favourite this season with its nipped in

waist, colour blocking and fur trim which

adds a touch of class to what is a very

functional garment.

2 On the other hand, if you are looking

for a long line style that will keep you warm

even in the harshest of climates, consider

the Shelburne Parka from the Canada

Goose Arctic Collection which comes

complete with luxurious fur trimmed hood

(www.canada-goose.com).

3 If you need something a little more

lightweight, take a look at the Mountain

Force collection (www.mountainforce.

com) which aims to combine innovation

and craftsmanship. Their quilted Chip

Hooded Insulation Jacket with chevron

detailing and its rich colour is right on

trend this season. Pair it with a classic

slim leg pant and you will be the envy of

your fellow skiers.

4 Make a statement on the piste and

around town with a luxury performance

Womens Chic jacket from Killy (www.

killy.com).

Its waterproof and breathable pearl

fabric protects you from the worst winter

weather and the generous down fill wraps

you in a warm hug.

2

The Shelburne Parka from Canada Goose

4

Womens Chic jacket from Killy

Toni Sailer Jet pants

C O N S E N S I O H O L I D AY S . C O . U K 33

C O N S E N S I O

Features include a zip off hood with

removable faux-fur trim, stretch soft shell

side panels to give a closer slimming

fit, soft stretch inner cuffs, removable

powder skirt and phone pockets.

Colours include Deep Forest, Black

Night or Light Champagne and it is

available in sizes 8 18.

While your jacket and accessories are

more likely to make a statement, getting

the right trousers is just as important. You

want something that gives you the right

level of protection and flatters your figure.

5 6 Both Toni Sailer and Mountain

Force have just the trick. They both

feature a number of styles that will make

you look good and keep you warm.

6Ski pants from Mountain Force

5

Toni Sailer Jet pants


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The extravagance of Perrier-Jout

B orn out of the romantic affair between Mr Perrier and Miss Jouet in 1811, Perrier-Jout is a champagne which now truly unites

the exuberant extravagance of the Belle

Epoque with the personality and artistic

approach of Art Nouveau.

This, says the winery that produces Perrier-

Jout, is how the principles of rarity and

exclusivity were formed.

The quest for artistic splendour is inherent

within the company a century after

the Belle Epoque and continues to be

demonstrated by Herv Deschamps, Chef

de Cave since 1993 and current guardian of

these important company principles.

Herv retains the philosophy of the master

craftsman - being an artist whose work

combinies grand flair with a skilled eye.

His winery contains a high proportion of

small vats and parcels of vineyard which

enables him to add an individual quality to

everything he produces.

Herv creates his blends, using intuition as

well as expertise to select those that will

give each Cuve the Perrier-Jout finesse.

This, he claims, is why Perrier-Jouet

champagnes will always have a certain rare

and unique quality about them.

In 1969 Perrier-Jout launched its renowned

Cuve Belle Epoque which quickly became

a favourite champagne among stars and

celebrities such as Grace Kelly, Princess of

Monaco.

Belle Epoque became a work of Art Nouveau

in its own right and the Perrier family house

at Number 11 Avenue de Champagne was

transformed into the Maison Belle Epoque

to act as a showcase.

After eight years of labour and love,

Maison Belle Epoque is now a palace of

uncompromising elegance.

It houses one of the largest and most

exquisite private collections of Art Nouveau.

Guests of Perrier-Jout are invited to stay

and become part of the atmosphere which

bustles with life and glamour.

And obviously they can experience the very

essence of Perrier-Jout, where life itself is

seen as art in its own right.

www.perrier-jouet.com

Napoleon III was a fan, as was Catherine II of Russia and Queen Victoria. Coco Chanel was a known admirer and Oscar Wilde ordered it from his prison cell. Perrier-Jout is one of the worlds most prestigious champagnes and has been favourite to the great, the rich and the good for more than 200 years due to its charming elegance


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Taking the kidsIn the days B.C. (Before Children) you could stay up all night and sleep all day during your holiday if you wanted to. But as every parent knows, this all changes when the babies come along. Do not despair, Consensio can help smooth the way.

F or most parents, the overwhelming memories of summer holidays with babies and toddlers will be of demanding children and unparalleled

levels of stress. Away from their routine,

small and even previously angelic offspring

seem to turn into miniature devils who

shamelessly have tantrums at every turn.

Taking your offspring on a skiing holiday

can be an even more daunting prospect.

There are so many things to consider.

What if they hate the cold? What if they

hate skiing? What if they never become an

Olympic champion?

The most important consideration will be

the availability of childcare facilities which,

can of course, make a big difference to the

success of the whole trip.

Lets start with the private nanny. Some

hotels and chalets, especially in the luxury

end of the market, will be able to organise

a private nanny to look after your children.

The advantage of this is that you will be

able to ski all day without being restricted

by the opening times of the crche or ski

school and your child will be cared for in

the comfort of your own accommodation

by the same familiar face each day.

Then theres the crche. Hotels and chalets

often offer a crche facility where your


C O N S E N S I O

37

children will be cared for during certain

hours and staff may be able to escort older

children to ski school.

The disadvantage of using a crche is that

if your child becomes ill, they will probably

not be able to return to the facility until

they are no longer infectious, which could

potentially put an end to your own skiing.

Some resorts will offer childcare facilities

within their ski schools which mean that

your little ones will be able to enjoy ski

lessons for part of the day and then some

indoor play as well as being fed and

entertained all day long.

Taking willing grandparents who may no

longer wish to ski, but are more than happy

to help with the childcare, is also a good

option. In this case choose somewhere

which is suitable for non-skiers if you

expect them to push baby around the

resort.

It is important to get the balance right,

depending on the ages of your children.

You might need to be a little patient and

experiment with the different options until

you get it right. Childrens requirements

change as they get older. Before you know

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C O N S E N S I O

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it they will be able to ski with you and

might even become better skiers than you

in very short space of time.

The family ski trip is something that all

generations can enjoy. If you start your

child skiing at a young age, it will always

be something that you do as a family well

into the future, even when they have grown

up and left home.

They may prefer to go on a cheap and

cheerful summer holiday with their friends,

but they will probably still be keen to come

on the annual family ski trip as long as

you are paying!

Top tips for a stress free family ski trip1. Choose the right chalet. With small children, safety is paramount. All Consensio chalets have stair gates, bed guards and baby

monitors. If the chalet has a pool, the doors can be kept locked at all times.

Children are provided with a contact wristband while they are out skiing to give parents peace of mind. A ski in/ski out chalet

always makes life a little easier.

2. Take the stress out of packing by using the services of a concierge company who can organise for all of your favourite brands

of essentials such as nappies, milk and baby food to be delivered to the chalet prior to arrival.

3. Pre-book ski childrens ski lessons with a reputable and experienced ski school.

www.progressionski.com

www.eliteskiteam.com

4. Pre-book a private nanny for all of your childcare needs.

www.jellyandice-cream.com

5. Make friends with Charlie Bear. Consensio aims to create a fun and friendly environment for little ones. Charlie Bear will be

waiting on their bed to welcome them on arrival and the Charlie Bear Challenge should keep them amused for hours. Each chalet

is equipped with toys, games, books, consoles and Apple TV. Sledges are provided for outdoor fun.


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Pampered poochesAs well as being a best friend, your dog is very much part of your family. When it comes to a skiing holiday, it is understandable that you will want to bring your whole family including your canine companion.

D ogs are welcome in all Consensio chalets, and staff endeavour to provide the same level of service for your dog as they provide for you.

Your dogs home environment can easily be

recreated in the chalet, with modifications

made where necessary, to ensure that your

canine companion settles into his new

surroundings as quickly as possible.

If your dog has special dietary requirements,

these can also be catered for by Consensio.

Steak medium rare? No problem. Chicken

sauted in butter? Coming right up.

It may seem strange to dog owners who

come from countries where they are

accustomed to being made to feel like social

outcasts if they so much as try to enter a bar,

shop or restaurant with a dog, but dogs are

a way of life in French ski resorts, and most

people have a very relaxed attitude towards

them. If you would like your dog to join

you for lunch up on the mountain, a chalet

chauffeur will happily bring your pet to you.

However, there are a few things you need

to look out for when bringing your dog into

a cold environment. First of all, you should

allow your dog a little time to adjust to the

temperature. Dogs shouldnt be left out in

the snow for prolonged periods, as leaving

them out in the cold can be just as dangerous

as leaving them in the heat - they can get

hypothermia in the same way humans can.


C O N S E N S I O

41

It is therefore sensible to limit the amount

of time your dog spends in the snow,

especially if you have a very small, thin

coated or old dog. Your dog might even

be willing to wear that designer coat that

he previously looked at with disdain!

When out and about in the resort, you

should try to prevent your dog from

eating snow, as there may be traces of

antifreeze in it, which can be dangerous.

Eating large quantities of snow can also

lower a dogs core temperature, which

can also lead to hypothermia.

Some dogs paws are better equipped to

cope with snow and ice, such as huskies

that have thick pads and coarse hair. You

can always protect your dogs paws with

some little boots if they are prepared to

tolerate them.

As long as you take a few sensible

precautions, spending time in the snow

should be great fun for both you and your

dog. Bringing your pooch to a ski resort

certainly wont hamper your enjoyment, and

it will almost certainly enhance it if you are

anxious about leaving your pet behind while

you go away.

Rules and regulations for travelling overseas

with your dog will vary depending on where

you live. It may be necessary for your dog to

have certain vaccinations, and to obtain a Pet

Passport please check the requirements in

your country of residence.

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Winter eventsLuxury ski holidays dont necessarily have to be limited to just skiing and snowboarding. There are many spectacular and entertaining events you can enjoy as part of your trip to the mountains. Here are just a few examples of whats on offer this season.

PHOTO: Courchevel Tourisme/Patrick Pachod


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The White Turf

On three consecutive Sundays in February,

thoroughbreds in both human and equine form

gather at one of the worlds most glamorous

race courses the frozen surface of the lake in

St Moritz.

There are flat races and trotting races of

varying distances, but perhaps the most

exciting and crowd pleasing is the Skijoring,

where unsaddled horses pelt across the frozen

lake dragging their riders on skis at speeds

of up to 50kmh. The racing has been taking

place in the Swiss resort since 1907 and with

its exceptionally beautiful setting, style and

glamour, it is easy to see why The White Turf

has established itself as the most spectacular

winter event in Europe. It now attracts more

than 30,000 guests from all over the world.

This season The White Turf dates are 8, 15 and

22 February.

www.whiteturf.ch

BMW Masters Polo

Snow polo is an action packed, majestic and

undeniably glamorous sport, which seems to

have been gaining momentum in winter resorts

over the last few years.

This season the BMW Masters Polo is being

held in the chic French ski resorts of Val dIsre

(14-17 January) and Megve (22-25 January).

Watching highly skilled horsemen thundering

across the glistening white surface, chasing a

bright orange ball is quite a spectacle. With no

off-side rule to worry about, understanding

the game is a breeze; the only thing the

spectators need to worry about is where their

next glass of champagne is coming from.

The Snow Polo World Cup is also being held

in St Moritz, Switzerland from 29 January - 1

February.

Alpine World Cup Skiing

There is always a great vibe and party

atmosphere when a World Cup ski race takes

place in a resort. Even if you dont normally

follow the sport, you will soon be absorbed

by the excitement. Among the French resorts

hosting World Cup races this season will be

Megve, Val dIsre, Courchevel and Meribel.

For race dates and more information log on to:

www.fis-ski.com

Courchevel Firework Festival

Courchevel is hosting a spectacular

international festival of pyrotechnic art thats

fireworks to you and me on selected days

from 12 February to the 5 March.

This will be the 12th time the French ski village

has hosted the competition when specialist

companies light up the sky with amazing

displays.

Each year more than 8,000 spectators watch

the event and enjoy the traditional torch-light

descent by the resorts ski instructors while

enjoying mulled wine and other traditional

treats.

The programme dates are as follows: 12 Feb

Courchevel Village; 19 Feb Courchevel; 26

Feb Courchevel Moriond; 3 Mar Courchevel

Le Praz; 5 Mar Remise des prix a Courchevel.


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Feel the forceSki performance coach and instructor Warren Smith explains how to make the jump from piste to powder skiing.

T he sensation of riding through deep powder snow is something many skiers long to experience. As they progress and achieve new personal

goals they start to set their sights on skiing

off piste and skiing in powder.

As off piste skis and touring bindings have

become more readily available, skiers have

become more and more adventurous. But

while dreaming of skiing in fresh powder is

one thing, having the ability to ski in fresh

powder is quite another.

Many skiers find it difficult to perfect the

pressure control between their two skis

and have trouble getting the skis to ride

in unison. When the skis ride together,

skiing powder feels easier, carries less

risk of injury, gives an amazing sensation

and allows the skier to attain better

performance and speed.

When the skis dont ride together skiing

can feel awkward, individual skis can sink,

and performance can be hindered.

Raising your awareness of the pressure

control between both of your skis is the

key to developing this area of your skiing.

A great way to test your awareness is to ski

on piste and make some carved turns. Once

you have become aware of the pressure in

these carved turns, you will quickly see just

how much pressure the outside ski carries

when you come to link the turns together.

In order to optimise the pressure control

between your two skis, start to think about

making turns where the pressure is more

even. Begin this on piste and feel the

difference here first.

Then take it on to powder snow and try it

out. The first step is to just feel the snow,

and to feel what it is like to push one of

your skis into the snow.

Afterwards you should make some turns

that are well within your comfort zone and

simply monitor the pressure control. Think

about the height of your skis on the surface

and try to visualise these images.

Give extra attention to the cross over from

the end of one turn to the start of new turn,

as differing snow surfaces and speed of


C O N S E N S I O

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This aerial shot shows how Warren is maintaining the tracking of the skis, and how the skis are working together in unison.

skiing may require extra awareness.

Dont expect the skis to automatically

ride together. Be prepared at first to work

hard to make them track in unison. Once

you start to become more experienced,

you will learn how to fine tune the ski

pressure and will gradually become more

comfortable with it.

As you start to ski faster in powder,

managing the pressure between the two

skis will require more effort. As you move

away from smaller radius turns into the

bigger freeride GS style turns, you will

need to heighten your awareness and fight

for ski unison

By now you will have become more aware

of how the weight against the outside ski

feels when you are carving on piste, so you

should be well equipped to balance it out

a little more on in the powder.

Work hard with awareness and pressure

control in the legs, and once your skis are

riding in unison your powder skiing skills

will improve dramatically.

* Warren Smith is one of Britains leading professional free skiers and an internationally

qualified performance coach and instructor. Warrens wealth of experience and ability to

combine ski technique, ski biomechanics and ski physiology has earned him a reputation

of being one of the most innovative instructors working in the Alps today.

www.warrensmith-skiacademy.com


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When Progression first started offering childrens lessons they were very conscious of the fact that they needed to pull out all the stops to

make sure everyone had a good holiday.

When it comes to teaching youngsters,

Progression has thought of everything. All

of their instructors carry a full first aid kit,

sun cream and hand warmers. Rather than

the usual bibs favoured by other ski schools,

children are equipped with funky helmet

covers, making it easier for the instructor to

spot them out on the mountain or waiting in

lift queues.

The ski school, which was established in 2006,

offers the full range of ski and snowboard

lessons with fully qualified instructors,

but the company has become particularly

popular with the parents of young children

and teens and are now regarded as one of

the leading ski and snowboard schools in the

French Alps.

Childrens lessons with Progression are

four hours - from 9am to 1pm - which has

proved to be the perfect length when taking

into account bathroom stops, hot chocolate

stops and time for chairlift chat.

Four hours also allows parents the

opportunity to take a much more relaxed

approach to their mornings skiing, without

having to worry about racing back before

they have even started.

As a ski school, Progression focuses on

safety and fun without making things too

technical. From experience, Progression has

found that most children learn visually, so

the instructors often combine games with

exaggerated body positions, with the result

that often the children dont even know they

Let the children playIf kids are happy, then parents are happy. When it comes to teaching children of all ages, Progression has stuck to this mantra enabling the company to become one of the most highly regarded ski and snowboard schools in Val dIsre.


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are learning or being taught.

At the end of the week, each child receives a

certificate, a Progression badge to show the

level achieved and a DVD of themselves skiing

to take home and show to family and friends.

For parents who wish to ski all day,

Progression offers private lessons for

children in the afternoons. The instructor will

take the child to lunch after the mornings

group lesson and ski with them during the

afternoon, allowing parents the freedom to

explore the whole mountain throughout the

course of the day.

Parents are always amazed to see the

improvements in their childrens skiing so its

no surprise that the same families return to

Progression year after year.

www.progressionski.com


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Looking after your body and soulThe spa and wellness facilities in Consensio chalets can help you relax and recover after a day on the slopes.

Skiing and snowboarding involves a series of highly complex interactions between both upper and lower muscles including your abdominals,

hamstrings, quadriceps and glutes.

Exertive forms of exercise have renowned

health benefits. However, with your body

undergoing such strenuous movements for

several days in a row it is important that you

relax and condition your muscles.

All of Consensios ski chalets come equipped

with optimal wellness facilities to ensure you

and your body are well cared for and that

you get the most out of your stay.

Hammam

Nothing relaxes the muscles like heat and

steam. A hammam is a large heated room

functioning as a steam room, as well as a

place to wash and exfoliate.

Steam raises the body temperature,

stimulating the immune system to increase

the production of antibodies and interferon,

effectively drawing out toxins. Amongst the

benefits of a hammam are muscle relaxation,

pain relief, respiratory benefits, firming of

the skin and the promotion of sleep.

Swimming pool

Swimming is a low-impact therapy for

injuries. When you are buoyant there is no

stress on your bones, joints or connective

tissues. It helps strengthen the abdominal

muscles which can become strained when

skiing, as well as stretching you out from

head to toe with every stroke.

It also serves as muscular meditation

with large muscle groups being used in a

rhythmic, repetitive fashion.

Ice bath

Plunging into an ice bath aids recovery and

reduces muscle pain and soreness. Soreness

occurs when waste products such as lactic

acid accumulate in your muscles through the

blood vessels.

Cold water temperatures constrict blood

vessels, flushing these waste products out of

the affected tissues.

This means that having an ice bath after an


C O N S E N S I O

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injury helps prevent swelling and bruising

caused by fluid build-up.

Jacuzzi

Stepping into a Jacuzzi will dilate the blood

vessels and improve circulation, which is

essential after skiing or snowboarding in

cold temperatures. Jacuzzis can also reduce

soreness in muscles and joints as water jets

provide something of a deep-tissue massage,

soothing muscle spasms and speeding up

recovery time.

Massage

A great way to increase blood circulation

to stiff muscles and joints is by having a

massage. Muscles and joints are warmed

by extra blood circulation, enhancing the

delivery of oxygen and nutrients to them. This

effectively removes waste products, reducing

pain. A massage relaxes muscle tissue, which

may lead to increased joint space, range of

motion and improved function.


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The Wow FactorLuxury ski chalets are, by their very nature, spectacular places to stay. Five star interiors, sumptuous soft furnishings, state of the art facilities and stunning snow-capped scenery come as standard. But you will also come across places with the wow factor - something exciting that exceeds your expectations, takes you by surprise and brings a smile to your face. Here are a few of our favourites.

From poolside to pisteside at Shemshak.

Enjoy a Jacuzzi at Elephant Blanc.

The well-stocked Marco Polo wine cellars offer wonderful wines from around the world.

While away the hours in Lhotses luxurious piano lounge.


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Relax in Grande Corniches glass sauna and spa.

Pool with a view at Aurora Borealis.Some like it hot! Tiptoe between the ice bath and hammam in Les Brames.

Swim indoors and out in Toit du Mondes disappearing pool.



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Let the hammam take away the strain of a long day on the slopes at Chopine.

The little ones will be longing for their beds at Montana.

Take a ride on a slide to the next floor at Grand Corniche.

Mont Blanc arrive in style on the chalets own helipad.

Pop along to the games room for some pre-dinner snooker in Les Brames.

A little bit of magic and mystery in Himalayas disappearing pool.

SKI SCHOOL & GUIDING

LUXURY CONCIERGE SERVICE

HELISKI & TRAVEL

+33 (6) 662 039 402 | [email protected] | www.eliteskiteam.com

Phi

llipe

Reb

reye

nd

ELITE COACHINGSki with a pro

ELITE POWDERHeliski, Freeride, Ski Touring

ELITE PINKSki & Yoga for Girls


C O N S E N S I O

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The lighter side of luxuryDeciding where to go and where to stay is part of the pleasure of looking for a ski holiday. But choosing a luxury ski holiday isnt just about elegant interiors, sumptuous surroundings, free flowing champagne, fine dining and endless indulgences. You need to make sure that you are selecting the right kind of accommodation for your party, which is not always as straightforward as it might appear. After all, what is one mans powder might be another mans piste.

The luxury catered ski chalet

The luxury catered ski chalet will

usually come complete with its own

spa, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna,

gym, cinema, massage room, games

room and bar. A team of highly trained

professionals, ranging from chauffeur to

chef, will be on hand to cater for your

every need.

Menus will be created according to your likes,

dislikes, diet, allergies and beliefs. Everything

from childcare to lunch reservations and ski

guides can be arranged prior to arrival, so you

dont have to worry about a single thing.

The luxury catered ski chalet is perfect for

big groups or large families looking to spend

some quality time together in a relaxed and

intimate setting.


C O N S E N S I O

55

The luxury ski residence

Staying in a luxury ski residence can be

every bit as glamorous as its chalet or hotel

counterpart, with beautiful interiors, luxury

bathroom products, daily housekeeping and

fresh flowers.

This accommodation is perfect for smaller

families or groups looking for a place to call

their own, as the luxury ski residence offers

privacy and flexibility.

Consensio is offering two elegant ski

residences in Courchevel this season.

The Pearl and the Rosa Alpina residences are

both located right on the piste which means

guests have ski in/ski out access.

The Consensio Concierge team is on hand to

organise every aspect of your stay from ski

guides to restaurant reservations. The team

can even arrange for a private chef to come

and cook for you.

When a ski chalet is too big for your group

and a ski hotel seems too impersonal, why not

try the lighter side of luxury with a Consensio

residence?

The luxury hotel

The luxury ski hotel will usually have all

the same facilities as a luxury chalet, but

on a much larger scale. As well as spa

and conference facilities, some luxury ski

hotels have their own luxury retail outlets,

nightclubs and even gondolas!

This type of accommodation is perfect

for couples wanting to spend time alone

together or for corporate groups, but not

so good for families with younger children

as the atmosphere can sometimes be a

little formal and reserved.


C O N S E N S I O

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Device adviceAmbit3 Peak Sapphire (HR)

499.99

The flagship model of Suuntos new

Ambit3 family is the must have GPS

watch for serious adventurers and

athletes who appreciate style as well

as function. Featuring Bluetooth Smart

compatibility and loaded with advanced

features, the Ambit3 Peak Sapphire

allows you to enrich, relive and share

your adventures.

Dragon APX Boost Transition

250.00

Transitions are market leaders in photo-chromatic optical lens

technology. For the coming winter Dragon have exclusive rights to

use this lens technology in goggles. These photochromatic lenses

automatically adjust to changing light conditions offering the

best protection and visual enhancement no matter what the .light

conditions. No lens swaps needed here, just perfect adaptation of

a yellow lens for low-light conditions that gradually darkens as UV

levels increase, to the extent it becomes fully dark in the brightest

of conditions. The company claims this is the first time this type of

technology has been used by an established market leader and it

will change the way people think about using ski goggles.

Items available at Ellis Brigham: www.ellis-brigham.com

Everyone loves a good gadget and there are plenty to choose from this winter season. The Ellis Brigham store has picked out a selection that are destined to catch the eye.


C O N S E N S I O

57

Ortovox S1+ Transceiver

349.99

Regardless of whether you end up

above or under the snow following an

avalanche, the S1+ can help. If you are

buried, it will help rescuers find you

more easily thanks to its Smart Antenna

Technology. If you are above ground

the display gives you full control of the

situation so you can find victims quicker.

Powertraveller Solarmonkey Adventurer

84.99

This slimline solar powered

charger with integrated

2500mAh battery allows

you to keep your essential

5V gadgets running when

venturing off the beaten track.

Thermic Power Gloves

200.00

Therm-IC Power Sock Set

160.00

Therm-ics mission is to develop technologies

for portable and easy-to-handle heating

systems to protect the body. PowerGloves,

PowerSocks and heated inner soles all gently

warm using imperceptible built-in heating

elements. Heat levels are adjusted with a

user-friendly control panel while ultralight,

rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide

the power. Whether you are skiing, walking or

just watching sport, you can prevent heat loss

and keep your body warm even in the coldest

temperatures.


C O N S E N S I O

58

Is this programme suitable for all levels of

skier?

Absolutely - from complete beginners to

experts and there is no age limit. Some of our

clients are 80 years old and still enjoy skiing

with Eliteski instructors.

How many people will be in a group?

There wont be any more than five in each

group and all the instructors are female. Its

a great way for mothers, sisters, friends and

daughters of all ages to ski together.

What makes the Eliteskipink programme

different to other methods of teaching?

We have created a brand new method of

teaching which we have named Zen Ski. It

encourages women to ski in a totally different

way bringing them pleasure, joy and new

sensations. Females often focus on the negative

aspects of skiing such as the cold, the heavy

equipment and the complications of organising

their families. We just want them to be able to

enjoy skiing, make some progress, and have fun

being in the mountains.

Do you think women learn to ski in a different

way to men?

Yes they do. Their sensitivity is different

women enjoy their performance and wish to

improve, but in a different way to men. With

Zen Ski we will be creating a testosterone

free environment which will help ladies to

become more confident and improve their rate

of progression.

Does Eliteskipink help female skiers overcome

their fears?

It is certainly one of our goals. We would like

the ladies on our programme to be able to ski

without anxiety. We want them to be able to

find peace and calm while skiing, in order to

develop their real potential. If by the end of

the programme a lady can come down a red

run whilst still smiling, is keen to return the

following year and actually starts to enjoy her

skiing, we will all be happy.

Where will the yoga/Pilates element of the

course take place?

We start with a body awakening inside the

chalet and then move outside to enjoy downhill

skiing together with some special exercises.

We will take some breaks in designated areas,

where we will practise some short meditations

and breathing techniques.

* Aurlia has been a director of Eliteskigroup

for seven years, and a ski instructor for 15

years. She has been a ski racer and French and

European water skiing champion. She received

her Yoga Alliance world certification from the

Mana Yoga Centre in Hawaii where Michaelle

Edwards has developed a special yoga science

known as Yogalign which is based on posture

and core alignments.

www.eliteskiteam.com

Zen and the art of skiing for womenEliteskipink has come up with a new way to enjoy skiing. It has been

designed exclusively for women and is based on yoga principles such as

breathing, awareness of body movement and outdoor meditation, The

Eliteskipink programme is available to female skiers in Courchevel and

Meribel this season. Aurlia Chrtien Poms, co-director of Eliteskigroup

provides an insight into how it works.

www.mountainforce.com

MF_AZ_Haend_Consensio_Claudia_Balcony_210x210_F39.indd 1 16.07.14 12:21


C O N S E N S I O

60

Safety in numbers Organising a trip for a large group of skiers and snowboarders has never been easier thanks to the combined skills of Consensio Corporate and the W Hotel in Verbier.

A nybody who has ever been given the task of organising a ski and snowboard trip for a large group of people - corporate hospitality, team

building, networking or just for a group

of friends - will tell you that it is not quite

as easy as it might appear.

What may sound simple in theory

invariably turns into a logistical

nightmare.

You will need to be prepared to:

Choose a resort with easy access

to an international airport which is

also served by flights from different

regional airports and countries.

Find a destination that is suitable for

skiers and boarders with differing

levels of ability and also has perfect

snow conditions.

Co-ordinate the transfers with the

flights.

Collect all the passport information.

Book everyone into the airport lounge

and check them all onto the flight.

...and thats before youve even left the

country.

Couple that with having to organise ski

hire, ski lessons, lift passes, and being

responsible for selecting only the finest

restaurants and evening entertainment

while still managing to crack a smile, and

you have quite a job on your hands.


C O N S E N S I O

61

Managing the expectations of a large

group of individuals with a wide range of

requirements takes a great deal of skill,

diplomacy, patience and time.

This is where Consensio Corporate and W

Verbier can offer you some assistance.

Very often the most difficult aspect

of trying to book such a trip, is finding

the accommodation, as many hotels are

reluctant to allow short stay bookings.

The W Hotel in the Swiss resort of

Verbier is one such hotel where there is

no minimum booking requirement, apart

from the Christmas and New Year period.

W Verbier opened its doors in December

2013 when it became the first ski property

in the W portfolio.

It has already caused quite a stir and has

been nominated in the Worlds Best New

Ski Hotel category at the prestigious

World Ski Awards 2014.

Verbier is a great choice of resort for big

groups of skiers as it is easily accessible

from Geneva airport with daily flights

from almost every corner of the globe,

It is a world class resort famed for its

fabulous free riding terrain and buzzing

social scene.

The W Verbier, with its string of

superlatives, seems to have everything

covered. As well as being the only ski

in/ski out hotel in Verbier - less than 50

steps away from the Medran lift - it is

also the only five star hotel in the resort.

Local materials have been blended with

ultra-modern daring design to create 123

stunning and spacious rooms, each with

its own fireplace and balcony.

For corporate groups, the multi-

functional meeting space with a capacity

for between 25 and 300 delegates is the

largest of its kind in Verbier.

With its 800sqm spa, three saunas, three

hammams, Jacuzzi, gym, indoor and

outdoor pools, it doesnt have to be all

work and no play.

The W Caf, Off Piste aprs ski bar, W

Living Room, Tapas Bar, Arola restaurant

with its two Michelin starred chefs twist

on Swiss classics, and the nightclub

Carve, should keep you fully fuelled with

food and drink.

In fact, theres probably no need to ever

leave the hotel except when you want

to go skiing of course.

Consensio is offering the W Hotel from

December 2014 and with the W Verbiers

Whatever/Whenever Service Team on

hand 24/7, your next group ski trip can

run as smoothly as a Swiss watch.

www.wverbier.com


C O N S E N S I O

62

zai - a modern day iconSimon Jacomets vision to produce a ski like no other has become a reality.

I n little more than 10 years of business, from a small factory in the Swiss Alps, the Swiss ski manufacturer zai has changed the face of modern ski design.

When Simon Jacomet founded the company

in 2003 his aim was to create a ski like no

other models that stood out from the

crowd and that didnt wear out after a

couple of seasons.

zai skis are hand crafted from the finest

materials and designed to last for several

years. Of course, the cost of manufacturing

such a ski is high compared to other

mass-produced brands, but zai believes

passionate skiers are prepared to pay more

for something that is truly beautiful and can

provide years of enjoyment as well as a ride

of incomparable smoothness, stability and

power.

And by sticking to these principals Simon

Jacomet has been proved right.

Take the testa, for example, with its polished

walnut surface, or the spada which has a

revolutionary stone core. The company will

also make custom-built, limited edition skis

such as the Bentley which was designed in

collaboration with the legendary British car

maker.

These skis have helped earn zai iconic

status among the worlds most discerning

skiers.

zais mission is to achieve the perfect

synthesis between human movement and


C O N S E N S I O

63

equipment, regardless of the challenges

this might entail.

Simon claims it is this singular, driving

passion that causes every zai product

to break new boundaries and provide

unparalleled pleasure for those privileged

enough to own and use them.

The business magnates and Hollywood stars

who ride zai skis may grab the headlines,

but they are just as suitable for those with

regular jobs and regular lives who just

happen to share the same love for the

slopes. All owners get to become a member

of the exclusive club of zai skiers.

Unlike other ski brands zai does not rely

on virtual ski development for its designs,

preferring instead to build prototypes and

test them in a variety of snow conditions,

These skis have helped earn zai iconic status among the worlds most discerning skiers.

using skiers of all ages and abilities. This

method is more costly and time consuming

than computer-aided design. But Simon

believes this results in a ski that is far more

in tune with human movement and the ever-

changing environment of the mountains.

zais 2014 2015 ski range includes the scadin.

Like all zai skis the scadin is handcrafted in

Switzerland and is the worlds first ski to

feature a felt surface, making it extremely

durable and scratch resistant.

This dedicated piste ski, with a strong

racing focus, embodies all the values of zai

- Swiss-made quality, durability, superior

performance and ground-breaking design.

zai encourages its customers to visit its

factory where they can watch the skis being

built and then test them on the mountain.

Simon is confident that once you have seen

the craftsmanship, innovation and passion

that goes into creating a pair of zai skis, felt

how responsive they are on the snow and

admired their beauty first hand, you will find

temptation difficult to resist.

You may not need a pair of zai skis, but you

will almost certainly want one

www.zai.ch


C O N S E N S I O

64

Dreams can come trueHave you ever thought about creating a dream ski chalet of your very own? We talk to Simon Tinley, the Project Manager who helped the owners of Chalet Chopine in Meribel do exactly that.

How did you become involved in the project?

The owners engaged me

consensio - your luxury lifestyle magazine

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