EUROPE VERBIER DESTINATIONS


 PARAGLIDE OVER THE MOUNTAINS For daredevils wanting to admire the Alps from another perspective, suggest paragliding. Soaring several hundred metres above the ground while dangling from a parachute might sound a little daunting, but reassure clients it’s surprisingly peaceful. I can’t say my heart didn’t


to sample a tipple or two in emerald-green surroundings that brochures can’t do justice. Excursions can be arranged from the town and The Lodge can organise tastings at Provins, the biggest wine producer in Switzerland.


flutter as I stepped into my harness, strapped on my helmet and launched off the edge of a hill, but as soon as we took off, I felt a sense of serenity. Winding trails, olive-green hills and pine forests quickly shrank to the size of a postcard, and the world disappeared into a blissful silence as we floated like graceful birds, wind whistling in my ears, total harmony all around. Verbier Summits offers tandem flights from £123 per person. If this is what the Alps are about, I’m coming back every year.


Tried & Tested THE LODGE


There are chalets, and then there’s this - Richard Branson’s nine-bedroom luxury ski lodge. One of seven Virgin Limited Edition properties, it takes all the elements you’d expect from Virgin - quirky touches and a laid- back, understated feel that isn’t stuffy or pretentious - and fuses them with the feel of a traditional Swiss timber chalet. Roaring fireplaces, wood- panelled walls, furry throws and splashes of colour characterise its rooms and suites, and there’s a lounge, entertainment room, spa, indoor pool and two bars to keep guests occupied. Meals are served on a long, communal table, and the food is exceptional, with a real emphasis


on local, just-foraged produce and wines straight from the valley. The location is excellent, with the centre of town a few minutes’ walk away, and it’s all so peaceful, with balconies overlooking layer upon layer of mountain. Book it: Rooms start at £720 per night from June 7 to September 22. In winter, it’s available for exclusive hire only. virginlimitededition.com/en/ the-lodge


28 February 2019travelweekly.co.uk57


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