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| image via Wikipedia |
Some labels like picturesque, idyllic, chocolate-box, are
bandied around far too freely when it bears on depicting mountain retreats,
except with Champery, they all seem to merge nicely. The town gets by on
balancing ease of access into the Portes du Soleil circuit with a relatively
isolated location, and as such functions as a well developed but absolutely
unspoiled resort. It's not that perfect -a rather low altitude, no runs back
into the resort and missing some good beginner slopes in the area - but such
gripes tend to be overshadowed by the region's arresting charm.
For some, the on-mountain attraction of Champery comes down
to three words: the Swiss Wall. One of the longest and steepest mogul runs in Europe , the run's notoriety is warranted (plenty of
people still come as complete cropper on it, and it can make for painful
viewing from the Chavanette chairlift), but experienced riders will not have
any problem with it.
The hills directly over Champery are suitable for intermediate
riders - even the blues are steeper than in neighbouring resorts, while plenty
reds make for long and uniquely gratifying runs. You can experience this on the
awesome Ripaille, which winds for about 6km back to Grand Paradis, having
stunning scenery all throughout. Also inspiring are the red runs that separate
and join back below the Mosettes chair. This area is likewise an excellent sun
trap: the Col
There's not much for expert skiers here, though powderhounds
will come across a lot of off-piste action during heavy snow. Some of this can
be encountered back on Ripaille: hike up from the lift, and stay on top of the
track until you are immediately above a series of powder fields (don't attempt
it if you do not know how to spot an avalanche risk because the area can be
unstable). For those looking for more intimidating angles in their off-piste,
the face below the Chavanette chair offers steep thrills aplenty - though
taking a tumble here can end in a long spin cycle back home.
© 2012 Athena Goodlight