Despite never fancying myself as an outdoor-sport enthusiast, an opportunity to spend a week in the French Alps during the height of summer was just too tempting to pass up.
Getting to our hotel, Chilly Powder's Au Coin du Feu, was an adventure in itself; my partner and I decided to forego conventional air travel.
Instead, we took a leisurely drive through France via the Eurotunnel, relishing the freedom of travelling at our own pace.
Dijon, the city synonymous with the mustard of its namesake, became our chosen pitstop on the way to the mountains.
Travel was relatively straightforward, despite a few toll-machine hiccups.
Dijon's charm was palpable and the local attractions, including La Moutarderie Edmond Fallot, a haven for Dijon mustard lovers, left me wishing for more time to explore.
As we edged closer to the Alps, spectacular vistas unfolded - a tantalising precursor to the week ahead.
Our room at the family-run Au Coin du Feu provided the perfect space to relax and wind down after each busy day, and the staff couldn't have been more happy to help and chat.
The hotel, perfectly placed between Morzine and Avoriaz, boasts 12 bedrooms and three apartments, as well as a massage yurt and a hot tub.
An unexpected delight was the afternoon tea we arrived just in time for – with a selection of delicious macaroons on offer.
Even though we spent most of our days exploring, Chilly Powder’s distinct charm lay in its communal evening meals.
An unusual concept at first, dining with other guests proved to be a great chance to exchange stories over the brilliant food; a nightly five-course meal consisting of an appetiser, starter, main meal, dessert and a cheeseboard, served with a selection of wine.
Morzine, with its bustling eateries and beautiful trails, was just a short walk away from our hotel.
Straight out of a postcard, you can spend hours upon hours admiring this Alpine wonderland.
Despite some initial nervousness, we eventually braved the cable car to Avoriaz, enjoying a game of mini golf 1,800 metres above sea level, an activity that is included in the region's multi-pass scheme.
This scheme grants you unrestricted access to a number of activities across the Portes du Soleil area.
A day trip to Lac de Montriond, a crystalline lake, yielded beautiful sights, like the nearby Cascade d'Ardent waterfall.
Summoning courage to walk the Le Pas de l'Aigle glass footbridge at 2,019 metres above sea level felt like a true victory, with the award being an incredible panoramic view featuring Mont Blanc - just don't look down at the 350 metre drop below.
Les Lindarets was another highlight, allowing you to get up close and personal with the village's resident goats who are more than happy to come up to you for a picture and a fuss.
Another source of joy came from our day visit to Montreux, Switzerland, which boasted a waterfront Freddie Mercury statue and more Queen-centric attractions in the Queen - The Studio Visit.
Looking for a shift in scenery, we headed to medieval Yvoire which was like stepping back in time, complete with a 14th-century castle.
Our adventures wrapped up with a ride on Luge 4 Saisons in Les Gets, a 1,100-metre toboggan test of bravery with a total drop of 104m and speeds of up to 40km/h - an absolute must-do for thrill seekers.
Chilly Powder operates year-round, offering summer holidays for individuals, groups and families looking to experience the Portes du Soleil region.
Summer prices start from €665 per person based on two adults sharing a standard bedroom for seven nights, or €1,853 for two adults and two children sharing a standard family bedroom.
Prices are based on a half-board basis with wine included in the evening meals. Self-catered chalets and winter ski holidays are also available.
To learn more or to making a booking, contact Chilly Powder on info@chillypowder.com or 020 7289 6958 or visit www.chillypowder.com
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