chillingwithjill

There’s no better way to start the new year than in a snowy alpine town. So to ring in 2025, we decided to pack up our camper with all the winter gear we’d need. Our destination? Camping L’Oustalet in the charming town of Châtel, France. It’s become our perfect winter getaway for the second year in a row — because why change something good? Let me take you through this trip, filled with just the right mix of excitement and relaxation. ✨🎿

the road to châtel

As we set off for the French Alps, excitement was in the air. The weather forecast promised sunny skies all week long! As always, the journey itself was part of the adventure. I have to say, it’s pretty relaxing to leave on vacation with your house on wheels… No stress about catching a flight or relying on transfers to a hotel. That said, I’ll admit the last 150 kilometers got stressful as we almost ran out of gas. 😅 Luckily, after 12 hours of driving we finally pulled into the campsite around 2 A.M.

camping l’oustalet: a second home in the alps

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Camping L’Oustalet is the perfect site for our stay. With beautiful mountain views and excellent amenities, it offers an ideal mix of practicality and comfort. Waking up each morning to the crisp alpine air and the sight of snow-covered peaks is such a treat. There’s even a bus stop right in front of the campsite, making it super easy to dive straight into the action! 🚠 Finished on the slopes? The campsite also has a ski room and ski boot room service. You can leave all gear in the locker room to guarantee dry equipment for the next day.

💡 Tip! When you stay at Camping L’Oustalet, you get a discount at Crépy Sports, a nearby ski rental shop. We had nothing but great experiences with the staff here. I even ended up buying the (second hand) ski boots I rented from them. I’ve never been so comfortable in rented ski boots as I was those 2 times I rented at Crépy Sports. Looks like I’ll be skiing in comfort for the long haul! 😀

ski fun on the slopes

The first day was all sun and blue skies. Perfect weather to ease into it, enjoying every square inch of the sunlit slopes. It also gave the kids a chance to get comfortable on their skis again. ☀

We covered just 13.5 kilometers — quite a difference from the 30 kilometers we tackled the next day! 😅

The second day, we got word that one of Kristof’s Swiss-based friends was skiing from Switzerland towards us. Given how large the Châtel ski area is, it was obvious that we’d have to ski in his direction too. But we were determined to meet up as this friend is like Santa to me. I’ve heard a lot about him, but we never met in person… 🎅🏻😉

But luckily, I can now say that I’ve officially met Santa! ✨🤭

This resulted in a very long day on the slopes, especially for the kids. But, in return we were treated to a breathtaking sunset over the mountains. 🏔💙

We spent a total of 5 days on the slopes. Covering a solid 90 kilometers. The kids — and let’s be honest, me too 😅 — are really getting the hang of it! Looking back at our videos and pictures, we can’t help but get excited. It’s just the coolest gang to be a part of! 😎😊

quality time off the slopes

This trip wasn’t just about hitting as much slopes as possible. It was also pure uninterrupted family time. From cozying up in the camper to watch the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks to strolling into the village for the best meat fondue I’ve ever had. Oh and before I forget: unwinding in the sauna — tucked away in a wooden cabin surrounded by snow. 🧖🏻‍♀ We definitely embraced both adventure and relaxation.

premiere

For the first time, we put together a fun little video of our camper trip! Curious? Check it out here. 👀

join the conversation

How did you kick off the new year? Did you seek adventure, stick to family traditions or took time for moment that recharge your mind? I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!

Cheers everyone, here’s to a year of thriving, not just surviving! 🥂