Airport transfer times
| Airport |
Distance to Chatel |
Approx. transfer time by road |
Closest train station |
| Geneva |
75km |
1 hour |
Thonon les Bains (40km) |
Top tips for...
FlyingChatel is best accessed from Geneva airport, which is the closest at only one hour away. Flying to Chatel is the quickest and most convenient way of reaching the resort followed by a transfer.
One of the things to look out for is that quite often, the cheaper the airline, the more complicated and expensive their baggage policy is. This can make carrying skis or snowboards to your destination costly if you are not prepared.
TrainAlternatively, Chatel can be reached by means of a combination of train and bus transportation.
Eurostar trains leave from Waterloo Station in the UK, arriving in Paris about four hours later. From the capital, you can connect with a high-speed TGV train headed for Thonon-les-Bains (
www.scnf.co.uk).
Transfers
Bus transfers are the most economical way to travel to resort from the airport or train station. If possible, try to book your tickets well in advance - the buses can get very busy and some companies act on a reservation-only basis.
If you
hire a car rom Geneva airport it should only take you roughly an hour to reach the resort. The routes are pretty clear, but for help have a look at
www.rac.co.uk and
www.drivingabroad.co.uk. Remember to book snow chains as it is illegal not to carry them.
For door-to-door, taxis are a good option, although not the cheapest.
Self-driveThe motorways are the quickest route to reach Chatel, but you will have to pay around €50-60 in toll charges each way. Allow about eight hours driving time from Calais.
To help with driving routes, check out
www.rac.co.uk or
www.drivingabroad.co.uk for directions and tips. Before you go, check with your car insurers that you will be covered for your time in Europe. Also remember to carry a warning triangle, spare light bulbs, flash light and a first aid box. And don't forget the snow chains!
If passing through Switzerland on the motorway you will be expected to purchase a ‘Vignette’ ticket that is valid for 12 months at a cost of approximately £20. There is no cheaper option and no point arguing with the border police! Either be prepared to pay or plan a route that keeps you off Swiss motorways.
