by Gemma Delaney

Post-holiday blues were exceptionally absent for us this year, returning to work after a seasonal break was an experience laden with radiance and vitality, in stark contrast to the usual grim tales of holiday stagnancy. Rather than indulging in a reel of mouse-clicked series content, embroiling ourselves in tiring routine car trips for family reunions, or getting uninspiringly soaked in ceaseless rain, we opted for a vivifying winter retreat at a French ski resort.

A Unique Yuletide Family Getaway

The anticipation was intense as we decided to step away from our traditional holiday celebrations and plunge into a physically engaging and entirely novel festive vacation. Our choice was a family ski break, a refreshing alternative to the inevitable reruns of popular holiday comedies and endless indulgence in holiday sweets while lounging.

Children, with their endearing attachment to legacy and traditions, initially appeared wary of this alternative Christmas plan. However, embracing a healthier, outdoor-focused festive celebration drew their curiosity and, before long, their excitement. Traditional treats greeted the kids on the holiday morning and the awe-inspiring panorama of the snow-covered mountain, visible from our comfy accommodation, assured us that our choice was undeniably right.

Festive Fun at an Affordable Alpine Base

As part of our resentment towards the everyday rushed life, we chose a family-friendly and affordable ski area as our holiday base – less premium perhaps, but just as thrilling as its fancier counterparts. Nestled between notable resorts and known for its amicability, this alpine wonder allowed us to explore an extensive network of slopes, once again hinting at the vastness we sometimes forget in our everyday, boxed lives.

Fear did pop its head around the corner as we prepared to experience adventurous winter sports for the first time since the pandemic. However, the well-organized ski school prepared us quickly, rekindling our love for the thrilling sport and restored our confidence

Vibrant (and Varied) Holiday Activities

Our enchanting holiday turned even more thrilling with an evening adventure on a luge slope alongside fun sledging experiences. A variety of resort-sponsored activities added even more festivity, including spirited DJ nights and interactive igloo-building sessions.

An enjoyable dip in the apartment pool resonated with delightful laughter and gave me a cherished moment of solitude for some holiday reading. Culminating our upbeat holiday escapade was a delectable cheese fondue at a cosy mountain restaurant, proving yet again that food is an undeniable part of a holiday experience.

This rejuvenating escapade might have been radically different, but it ultimately combined the best elements of holiday celebration. The warmth of family ties, a hearty dose of frosty wonder, and a fresh perspective on what festive festivities can be. The second round of postponed traditional Christmas festivities, felt more like a cherry on our perfectly baked festive cake, reasserting the magical essence of balancing out experiences.

It’s the unanimous verdict of my family: “A complete Yes!” to an invigorating fusion of tradition and novelty!

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