the press kit Winter 2015-2016

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1
Winter 15-16
Table of contents
GET TO ORCIERES EASILY......................................................................3
AN UNPARALLELED SKI AREA............................................................. 4
LEISURE RHYME WITH PLEASURE........................................................8
BEAR CUBS ARE PAMPERED................................................................ 12
AN AUTHENTIC TERRITORY................................................................. 16
AGENDA & EVENTS................................................................................ 18
CONTACTS.............................................................................................. 20
Orcières Merlette 1850 cultivates its own identity : that of
a welcoming, attractive station on a human scale... all its
charm is there. Orcières is yours. Welcome !
Orcières Merlette 1850 has many highlights :
A
privileged climate, sun & snow. It is located exactly
where the Alpine and the Mediterranean climates meet ;
Children and families are pampered : Orcières Merlette
1850 has earned the « Family Plus » label, created to allow
families to benefit from their holidays fully and easily.
Winter 15-16
2
During spring 2016, Orcières Merlette 1850 invite the
children ! See page 13
The ski area offers a nice balance when it comes to tracks
or play areas, everyone will be satisfied.
Coming to Orcières is a guarantee to find a multitude of
alternative and non-ski activities. Everything is possible !
A preserved nature at the gates of the Ecrins National
Park, through playful and cultural activities.
Welcome to the place of senses !
GET TO ORCIERES EASILY
By train
Located at the heart of the
Champsaur valley in the
Hautes-Alpes, it is easy to get
to Orcières Merlette 1850.
Aix-en-Provence TGV station, then bus to Orcières ;
Grenoble station, then bus to Orcières ;
Gap station, then bus or taxi to Orcières.
By plane
Marseille airport, then bus to Orcières ;
Grenoble airport, then bus to Orcières.
A free covered car park receive visitors and 2 escalators handle routes between car parks and the slopes,
in order to make life easier.
Besides, free buses take you easily through the station.
By car
From the south : A51
motorway (Gap Sud) ;
220 km from Marseille, 38 km from Gap.
From the north : Motorway to Grenoble and N85 (Napoléon road) ; 680 km from Paris, 900 km from Lille.
3
Winter 15-16
AN UNPARALLELED SKI AREA
Winter 15-16
4
1850 - 2725 M
Orcières Merlette 1850 :
50 slopes : 9 green, 15 blues, 20 red et 6 black ;
60% of the ski area can benefit from artificial snow ;
30ski lifts including 3 Télémix (mix of cabins and chairs) ;
2 downhill slopes, 1 slalom stadium ;
1 altitude snowpark ;
1 recreactive trail Opoualand ;
1 boarder-skier cross ;
Many webcams to see the slopes live on orcieres.com ;
2 ski schools ESF & ESI
A place of champions !
OPEN FROM 12th december 2015 till 22nd april 2016
Serre-Eyraud, another face of Orcières
Located at the base
of the Grande Autane
mountain, across from
Orcières Merlette
1850 is the hamlet of
Serre-Eyraud. A small
mountain village
at 1500m altitude
with a ski area
for a getaway highly
appreciated by lovers
of authentic ski.
Alizée Baron French Ski Cross team
Valentin Giraud Moine French Alpine Skiing team
(downhill & Super G)
This winter, our champion Valentin will be able to train
himself on the new FIS downhill slope of Orcières
Merlette 1850. This training and competition run was
named Camille Ricou, in tribute to the creator of the
station.
5
Winter 15-16
AN UNPARALLELED SKI AREA
ROCHEROUSSE PLATEAU, 2280 M
BEGINNER AREA
RECREACTIVE TRAIL
OPOUALAND
SNOWPARK
BOARDERCROSS
WAOULAND
Winter 15-16
6
TÉLÉMIX
ROCHEROUSSE
NORDIC VILLAGE
SLED DOGS
IGLOOS
RESTAURANT
SOLARIUM
WINTERPARC
PEDESTRIAN
TRAILS
1850 - 2725 M
Try out the ski, for free !
For those who want to make their first schuss this winter,
the resort offers initiation of an hour with an instructor. Ski
packages and ski pass are included ! To ensure peace and
quiet for new practionners, the lesson takes place before
the opening of the skia area.
Orcières and its partners invite to discover or rediscover
the joys of skiing !
Free activity
Discover the resort ...
Let’s groom the slopes »
« Discover the ski area from
an unusual point of view,
aboard one of the Orcières
Merlette 1850’ groomers !
What better way to enjoy
the sunrise and the sleepy
ski area. It is also an opportunity to discover the facets
of this special job.
Random draw
I’ve got the keys of the resort !
Every week, holiday-makers
have the privilege of accompanying Orcières trackers to
open the ski area. An unforgettable experience, that of
being alone on the trails at
the first rays of the sun ! It’s
also an occasion to share an
unforgettable experience.
Free activity
7
Winter 15-16
LEISURE RHYME ...
Orcières Merlette 1850 has both skiing and additional activities.
The station can be proud to offer its clients a multitude
of entertaining and fun activities. Orcières Merlette 1850
remains a model in this area, some of its activities playing
decidedly unusual map.
Open air
Zip line
If you like strong sensations, hold on
! Almost 2 km at great speed (130
km/h) on a steel wire. The Roll’Air
Cable offers maximum adrenaline in
the shortest of times, and an incredible sensation, that of flying...
Roll’Air Câble +33(0)684 448 810
Ski? paragliding? Speedriding!
In Orcières, aerology allows for flying
throughout the year. Speedriding is
practiced in a special area, in completely safety. Two-seater options and
training are available.
Fusion Parapente +33(0)686 718 651
Chaussée Glissante +33(0)682 084 783
Ecrins Vol Libre +33(0)685 430 496
Ressources Parapente +33(0)608 850 228
Winter 15-16
8
On the hills
Snowtubing
Objective of this new activity located
on the Rocherousse plateau : slip on
individual rubber ring or hit the slopes
in snow rafting, up to 8 people at the
same time ! A lift get to the top of the
dedicated sloped.
Winterparc +33(0)669 405 257
snake gliss
Sleds attached in single file to form a
Snow Snake and create a large S on
the trail for a long descent… It is a
great moment, especially for those
located at the very end of the convoy.
Every day, after the slopes close.
Snake Gliss +33 (0)787 116 047
By motorcycle
Driving powerful snowmobiles in the
heart of a desert ski area at dusk, it is
the dream of every thrill seekers. On
the trails or off-trail, they will feel that
the ski area belongs to them.
Loutesskis shop +33 (0)492 556 496
Susciet eic tem rest
WITH PLEASURE !
On the nordic side
Sled dogs
One can try to drive or will prefer to
sit comfortably in the sleigh to enjoy
the magnificent scenary around...
Riding with sled dogs is the essential
activity before winter ends.
Alpi-Traineau +33 (0)660 683 244
Nomad’Esprits +33 (0)687 374 830
Nordic skiing
50 km of cross-country skiing trails, in
the middle of firs and larches, following
the Drac river. And most of all, a deep
breath !
Free shuttles between Orcières Merlette
1850 and the Outdoor Activities Centre
everyday.
Joering skiing
An ancient Scandinavian activity, once
again becoming popular. Sporting short
skis (which are provided), and pulled
along by a horse. Great sliding sensations and a beautiful moment shared
with the animal... all in natural surroundings !
Écuries des Écrins +33(0)682 185 970
Snow shoes
Just some crunches of steps in an
indefinable silence, in the heart of
breathtaking landscapes. Snowshoe
hike, a beautiful escape!
Mountain guides +33(0)492 556 020
ESF +33(0)492 557 278
GOOD DEAL ! Holiday idea pack « Mountain of sensations » including accomodation, ski pass and 2 adrenaline
and sensational activities.
Info www.orcieres-reservation.com
9
Winter 15-16
LEISURE RHYME ...
The Leisure & Relaxation Complex is the temple of well-being and pleasures. People come here to be entertained,
energised, entrust themselves to the hands of experts or just spend the whole afternoon lazing in the sun, just like at the
beach. The only difference is that they will be facing snowy peaks with stunning views … !
Water
Ice
With 2 pools, 1 aquatic toboggan and waterfalls, the swimming
pool is a veritable oasis of play and relaxation for the whole family.
And the stunning view of the snowcovered peaks is a gift for everyone ! It opens during nights on certain days of the week.
Last detail, aquaerobics and swimming lessons are offered for
those who want to learn or just move !
1 600 m² of ice welcome skilled skaters and beginners alike ! To
have fun, dance, play hockey... It opens during nights on certain
days of the week.
Would it not at the Leisure & Relaxation Complex that « swimming
in happiness » would be fully realised ?
Winter 15-16
10
Children from 3 to 7 years who want to intiate themselves into ice
skating, will learn to skate in the company of friendly figurines,
under the good advice of instructors and their parents. Twice a
week, the ice rink turns into a real « ice garden ». See page 12.
tem rest estiusa volorum que molorro
WITH PLEASURE !
GOOD DEAL ! Access to the swimming-pool and ice rink of the Leisure & Relaxation Complex is free for any purchase of
a holiday idea pack, by way of the Booking Center of the tourist office. Info www.orcieres-reservation.com.
Relaxation
Game
The Leisure & Relaxation Complex is also the place to wind down
and breathe in a different atmosphere. Saunas, hammam and jacuzzis are there to let you get back to a top form.
The bowling counts 6 lanes, all accessible to children that are at
least 1.25 m tall.
And for those who like to be taken in hand, experienced, qualified
professionals offer a number of body treatments : wellness massages, wraps, scrubs, facial treatments… So that you can feel great
in your skin and on your skis !
A bar area receive the public in exceptional surroundings : a panoramic terrace facing the mountain Aiguille d’Orcières.
Many concerts take place throughout the season!
Two steps away from the bowling, an auditorium and two cinemas promise to spend an unforgettable evening !
11
Winter 15-16
BEAR CUBS ...
A label, Family Plus
Orcières Merlette 1850 has always been a pioneer in providing for children and families. With its accommodation
offers (villages, clubs, hotels, tourist homes), its services
(Leisure & Relaxation Complex, Child House), its family offers (« Orcières invites children «) and its ski area suitable
for all ages (Opoualand fun trail, 3 Télémix - only station
to be equipied with it), Orcières Merlette 1850 remains a
station that is totally family-oriented.
It has indeed earned the national Family Plus label, recognised by the Ministry of Tourism. This quality label has
been created to allow families to benefit from their holidays fully and easily.
Bears cubs moments
Eve with Santa Claus
The ski holiday with dad, mom
and ... Santa ! In Orcières, at
Christmas Eve vigil, Santa makes
a personalized tour in the station and brings gifts to children
in their apartment ! A unique
moment for a magical Christmas !
eic tem rest estiusa volorum que
Winter 15-16
12
Bear Cubs Festival
Performances on the theme of
Christmas, musical entertainment
and Christmas village, the famous
torchlight parade ...
Children have definitely the place
of honour during this Christmas
week. From 20th to 25th dec.
Bear Cubs party
Every wednesday, the Leisure & Relaxation Complex opens its doors
to children for a late musical afternoon. The program includes music
and DJ dance, just for them.
The real party!
eic tem rest estiusa volo-
Ice garden Twice a week, it allows children to
discover ice skating while having
fun with playful activities, that can
be practiced together as a family.
Laughs garanteed !
ARE PAMPERED
Orcières invites children !
The little skiers Spring
From the end of march, Orcières invites children !
From 26 March 2016 until closing (April 22), the ski pass
is FREE for every children under 10 years old !
By 1/2 day, full day or even a stay, skiing is no limit for
bear cubs.
Many other good deals will be offered to families as regards activities and shops, for the best holidays ever !
Orcy’s birth !
Orcy the softly and smiley bear is the new companion
of children in Orcières. The new mascot will love to walk
down the streets with the children, to have fun, play, and
participate in activities with them ! And Orcy loves to be
photographed !
Ski for free, for the kids
In Orcières Merlette 1850, the ski pass is free for children
under 5 years old. And they enjoy free access to the Leisure & Relaxation Complex (swimming-pool and ice rink) !
13
Winter 15-16
BEAR CUBS ...
Child’s house
Baby Snow
for children’ happiness
Skiing at the age of 12
months is possible in
Orcières Merlette 1850, with
the Baby snow, a machine
which is similar to a snowscoot. Guided by an instructor, the baby will have great
sensasions !
The « Child’s house » is the home of children. They are
treated like kings, everything is done for them !
Opoualand
« Oursons » Childcare Centre
The home welcomes children aged 3 months up to 6 years
old, for a half day or a full day.
Toddlers are cared, and their universe is full of colours, discovery games and constant attention thanks to the sweet
educators.
Winter 15-16
14
A super fun and educational trail, dedicated to
those between 6 and 12
years old !
Young skiers have fun
in the fantasy world of
Opoual, the friendly yeti,
on an attraction-filled trail
(snow caves, snow catapults, skill games…)
Opoualand moves to the Rocherousse
plateau, the flagship point of the ski area !
ARE PAMPERED
Piou Piou garden
Nothing is too big for the little ones !
First snow garden created in France (in 1967), « The Piou
Piou garden » welcomes children between 3 and 6 years
old. Here it is the place for space !
On this huge, fully equipped playground (with trails and
teleskis) – one of the most beautiful in France – children
get to have their first go on skis, under the watchful eyes
of the monitors from the French Ski School (ESF).
The lift is replaced by a covered travelator of
54 m long ! This is the second one in the snow garden.
But that’s not all: «There is also an educational approach
through a story told to the children : that of Piou Piou
and his friends. It aims to develop their motor skills. The
monitors integrate essential concepts in their teaching
approach, such as pleasure, freedom and imagination.»
These few words from Michel Joubert, Director of Orcières
ESF (French Ski School).
15
Winter 15-16
AN AUTHENTIC
The Écrins National Park
Snowshoeing or ski
Half of the commune (a borough) of Orcieres is inside the
central zone of the Ecrins National Park, where you can
explore the winter wildernesses of this European National Park. It’s the largest protected natural space in France
(100,000 ha).
touring ?
The Ecrins National Park
is the perfect territory for
snowshoeing or ski touring.
Every week, guided and
themed snowshoe walks
«chamois spotting», «history
and heritage», or «moonlit»
are offered to the public.
They are accessible to all !
The white dominates and reveals the traces of animals that
inhabit this territory. The striking silence adds to the wild
side of a preserved nature. This area in the heart of Champsaur deserves to be discovered ... with care and respect.
The avalanche report
Every week, people can
join the park wardens to
take part in the surveys of
the snow conditions and
wildlife. The group will
collect datas that will then
be transmitted to Météo
France for avalanche bulletin.
Free activity
Winter 15-16
16
eic tem rest estiusa
TERRITORY
Treasure of the Champsaur
Holidays are made to pamper yourself ... Here the specialties reflect the soul of the country, anchored in the mountain traditions and coated with a southern accent.
All about cheese !
Noémie, young farmer who love her mountain and nature,
welcome people among her goats in the farm « Les Cabrioles ». People will be involved in the milking, discover
the farming profession, and enjoy a good snack in the farm.
The farm is a great example of a strong agriculture in the
Champsaur.
«Génépi» Guillaumette
When the larch flower sits at the table
Stéphane Bertrand-Pelisson, chef of the Gardettes restaurant and former student of the Thonon Hotel school, offers
authentic and refined cuisine.
If the set menu celebrates the Champsaur specialties - from
nettles soup to the ravioles gratin with morels, through the
tian of lamb shoulder, without forgetting the famous tourtons - he revisits traditional dishes like « fried escalope of
foie gras and creamy polenta ».
Stéphane is also the only chef to use the larch flower - the
Queen of the Southern Alps - to make sorbets and «home»
jams.
In the Bernard-Reymond family,
every one masters the ways
and means, the ski ... and the
production of « génépi » ! Ski
instructors during winter, the «
Guillaumette » family cultivate
the génépi on the height of Prapic in the Ecrins National Park,
during summer.
Tasting the specialties of the country is a must !
The « Tourtons » : small squares of fine pastry, filled with
a potato, cheese and onion purée and fried.
The « Ravioles » : cheese and potato mixture, rolled into
little ‘quenelles’ (like dumplings), either fried or baked.
The « Oreilles d’Ane » (Donkey Ears) comes from the
main ingredient, wild spinach, which is collected when its
size and shape look like a donkey’s ear !
17
Winter 15-16
AGENDA
In Orcières, two days are ... and do not look alike !
Cultural performances, sporting events, entertainment,
discoveries, encounters and exchanges are part of a perment scheduling, in both winter and summer ! And everything is designed to satisfy everyone !
A rich program of events, regular appointments as « aperitif or dinner concerts » in bars and pub, where you’re sure
to have a great time !
The highlights of Winter 2015 - 2016
DECEMBER 2015
From 20th to 25th december
BEAR CUBS FESTIVAL
Performances on the theme of Christmas, musical entertainment, Christmas village, the famous torchlight parade
... not to mention a visit from Santa Claus that will bring
gifts to the children in their apartment !
From 27th december to 1st january
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016 !
A busy week to celebrate the new
year ! On the program : fire shows,
concerts, big New Year’s Eve (DJ,
fireworks, torchlight parade and
many other surprises...!)
JANUARY 2016
From 22nd to 24th january
INTERNATIONAL DAYS - FIS CHAMPSAUR
Three days of races featuring the best international skiers.
On the program : special slalom, giant slalom and super G
Giant. The race in Orcières Merlette 1850 will take place on
22nd and 23rd january on the new downhill slope.
Winter 15-16
18
AND EVENTS
FEBRUARY 2016
4th & 5th february
SKI CROSS EUROPEAN CUP
Orcieres will host for the fourth
consecutive year the European
Cup of Ski Cross. One hundred
competitors
representing
ten
nations will start in waves of four
over a splendid course.
6th february
SKI CROSS FRENCH CUP
Orcières Merlette 1850 will host a step of the Cup Skicross
France, for the first year.
MARCH 2016
19th & 20th march
SKI GAMES ROSSIGNOL
A competition similar to the X
Games, for 500 young skiers who
are competing for the title of «
King 2016 » on two Skicross. Not
forgetting the big show at the end !
APRIL 2016
From 9th to 22nd april
On the occasion of the operation
Skiing into Spring, Orcy the new
mascot of the station will offer
many activities, only for children !
9th & 10th april
SKI ECRINS
A spectacular Mountaineering Ski race, between Orcières
Merlette 1850 and Puy Saint Vincent. Competitors will alternate ascensions in ski touring and crampons, immersed
in breathtaking landscapes.
From 15th to 17th april
LITTLE CHAMPIONS TROPHEE
The biggest competition of junior
hockey in Europe !
600 young hockey players put on
the show on the rink of the Leisure
& Relaxation Complex, to end the
season on a high note !
From 26th march to 22nd april
THE LITTLE SKIERS SPRING see page 13
19
Winter 15-16
CONTACTS
OFFICE DE TOURISME
Place des drapeaux
Merlette
05170 ORCIÈRES
Join us on Facebook !
Press online
+33 (0)4 92 55 89 89
info@orcieres.com
WWW.ORCIERES.COM
PRESS CONTACT
Mathilde Diaz
+33 (0)4 92 55 89 61
+33 (0)6 82 99 92 26
m.diaz@orcieres.com
Conception : Office de tourisme d’Orcières.
Photos : Gilles Baron, ITMR, Frédéric Prévot, Thomas Daniel, PNE, ESF, Office de tourisme d’Orcières.