The Les Contamines UCPA is a fantastic self contained centre just minutes from the town but offering everything that you would need for the week on site. The in house spa offers a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna for a minimal charge, there is a huge indoor climbing wall, the obligatory nightclub and bar as well as various games rooms. The centre has a huge terrace where you can sit outside and enjoy a beer after a hard days skiing whilst watching the sun set on the surrounding mountains.
Food description
The food is served buffet style each day. Breakfast is yogurts, cereals, fruit juice, coffee and bread - don't be surprised to see that the coffee, tea or hot chocolate is taken French style - a soup bowl !
Typically lunch is a DIY picnic made up at breakfast time (great choice of breads, meats, cheeses, pasta, salad, fruit, sweets etc). The picnic lunch means maximum time on the mountains without spending a fortune on expensive mountain side restaurants. Note that beginners will often return to the centre for a hot lunch.
Dinner is a 4 course buffet - typically a salad bar style starter, choice of 3 or 4 main courses - most often including fish, cheese selection, fruit, dessert and ice-cream freezer.
Any special dietry requirements should be made known to reception staff at check-in. Generally vegetarians will find a wide enough choice within the buffet.
Entertainment
The UCPA staff lay on an entertainment program each week. It's certainly not Butlins and there is no pressure to take part - all quite low key. Typical program would include stretching in the early evening, crepe making, quiz, sketch evening, karaoke and some evenings a live band.
Equally in the town there is a great selection of bars & nightclubs to suit all tastes.
History
UCPA is more than 40 years old, and was originally set-up by the French government to encourage young people to enjoy the outdoors. It is now a "not for profit" organisation with all profits being put back into refurbishing the centres.
The ethos of sport is still first on the agenda, but the instructors and centre staff don't forget that it is still your holiday.
Useful facts
- There is a car park for UCPA guests only.
- Bring suncream, the valley catches plenty of sun
Location
- 5 minute walk from the town centre
- Regular buses run to the lifts