Ski specialists based in Val D’Isère for over 20 years, YSE Ski know a thing or two when it comes to planning and delivering the perfect holiday. StyleNest headed mountainside to check out the secret behind YSE’s success.
We’d heard such great reviews about YSE ahead of our trip that we simply had to check them out and see what all the hype was about. Upon arrival the good reviews were immediately confirmed as it was revealed there were only 4 people on the coach who had never travelled with YSE before. Talk about loyal customers. It was apparent from the off that YSE offer a personal touch, so much so that on the coach leading us up the mountain was John Yates Smith himself.
First we should tell you a little bit about how the company came about. Back in 1991, former Olympic skier Fiona Easdale teamed up with long term Val d’Isère resident John Yates-Smith to form YSE, however back then they started with only 12 chalets and a mailing list made up of friends and family. With a background in hospitality and ski tour operating and a degree in modern languages under their belt, they were well equipped to launch a unique and successful company.
Unlike many other ski tour operators, YSE operate exclusively in Val D’Isère. What they don’t know about the resort isn’t worth knowing. So from the off you can rest assured that you are in safe hands. Not only does this focus allow them to know the ins and outs of where to eat, drink and party but they have built up and nurtured relationships with local retailers to ensure you have the most favourable rates. Being based in one resort also allows John, Fiona and their team to visit all the chalets regularly to maintain standards. We have to say, we also like the touch of a mid-week text from John to check everything was going smoothly.
So, down to the chalets themselves. YSE know only too well the varying demands of a ski holiday. Some seek pure luxury (hot tubs, spas and champers on tap), others are simply after a cosy spot to eat, recharge and rest their head before hitting the first lifts in the morning. As opposed to catering for tastes, YSE have the simple philosophy, “Would we enjoy this?”. Of course, some chalets sit at the higher end of the scale and are considered some of the most luxurious in Val D’Isère, whist others cater for larger groups and sit at the simpler end of the scale. But whatever your needs, budgets and tastes you can find the perfect accommodation to suit.
We stayed at Chalet Neiges, located in La Daille with ski in and ski out access. A medium sized chalet (14 guests) but it was so cosy it felt like a home away from home.
Food and service is second to none at YSE. Whichever end of the scale you opt for you are guaranteed that your chalet will have attentive and friendly staff who will go that extra mile to make your stay as relaxing and carefree as possible. All the staff are chosen by Fiona who keeps them motivated throughout the season. Running a chalet is a tough job but you would never tell from the smiles and happy nature of our chalet girls.
When it comes to food, YSE take matters very seriously, from a breakfast fit for kings to tempting afternoon teas and a decadent three course meal each evening. Each house wine is tried and tested (and we’re sure enjoyed) by John, but there is also a list available for those wishing to explore a variety of wines.
What really made the YSE experience so fantastic for us, wasn’t the ski in ski out chalet, delightful chalet girls and superb chef, but the ease with which the whole operation is run. We have travelled with many ski operators in the past and none have made a transfer up to the mountains quite so effortless as YSE or offered such a personal touch. On our trip back our rep took time to speak to every guest to get their feedback from the week, taking notes of even the minutest detail. No wonder 75% of their guests return, this attention to detail makes for a smooth, well run ski firm.
It’s safe to see we have been YSE’d and will be booking up next year’s trip ASAP. This was a holiday we want to experience time and time again.
For more information, rates and availability visit Yseski.co.uk
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