This month's travel indulgence



The weather may finally be hotting up at home - but there's still time to book yourself a trip to the French winter wonderland of Les Trois Vallées, the biggest ski area in the world. In fact, April is the best time to explore this breathtaking terrain, as it enjoys over 15 hours of sunlight per day.

Besides the seductive scenery, of course, there are plenty of equally alluring restaurants and bars. But if you want another delicious reason to visit the area this spring, the wonderfully named gourmet ski specialists Fish & Pips are offering a top-class holiday in Méribel. Guests stay in one of four fabulous chalets - think roaring log fires, comfortable but stylish furniture and stunning views - and enjoy exceptional cuisine cooked by cordon bleu chefs, together with an unlimited supply of handpicked chateau and domaine-bottled wines.

Want to know what's on the menu? After a hearty breakfast of eggs and bacon, fresh croissants, homemade jam, cereals, porridge and fruit, you can stock up on chocolate bars to see you through a morning on the pistes. You'll come back later to the smell of freshly baked cakes as a gorgeous afternoon tea is ready and waiting for you on the table - along with your choice of the day's UK newspapers.

But it's evening mealtimes when you really get to indulge. Feast on seared St Jacques scallops with crispy pancetta and mint pea puree, followed by fillet of beef on a bed of crisp potato rösti, slow-roasted vine tomatoes and wild mushrooms with a green peppercorn jus. And for dessert? Individual chocolate soufflés with vanilla cream and raspberry coulis.

It's the perfect trip to go on with family or friends: a week's stay in a four-bedroom chalet, including all meals, costs from around £475 per person (based on eight sharing). To find out more, go to www.fishandpips.co.uk.


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