A large chalet in the French Alps hosted 17 strangers for a week of skiing and socializing. The trip, organized by Friendship Travel, is designed for solo travellers who want to explore the slopes without the hassle of planning logistics or finding companions. Participants ranged in age from 35 to 65, with many seeking independence and personal growth through travel.
Group Dynamics in Les Deux Alpes
The journey began with a welcome drink and a three-course dinner in the chalet lounge. The group consisted of nine women and eight men, each with their own reasons for joining. Some were navigating life changes, such as a recent split or the loss of a partner. Others were first-time skiers overcoming years of hesitation. A few were seasoned solo travellers, with one participant having completed more than 90 trips.
The atmosphere was described as upbeat and easy. Hosts Sam and Mike provided a low-key presence, allowing guests to form their own cliques. The group naturally fragmented during the day, with people identifying potential après-ski buddies. This structure allowed for both social interaction and personal space, a balance that many solo travellers seek.
Skiing and Infrastructure
Les Deux Alpes offers significant infrastructure improvements, including the new Jandri 3S cable car. This system transports skiers to an altitude of 3,200 metres in 17 minutes, a substantial reduction from the previous 40-minute journey. The resort features a mix of broad blue and red runs, as well as challenging black runs. The high-altitude Glacier de Mont-de-Lans provides reliable snow conditions.
Participants skied in groups based on ability. The advanced group, rated level 4, included a guide named Luke. The group dynamic provided a sense of safety, particularly on off-piste sections. “I’d never have tried that alone,” said one participant, Clemmie. The après-ski scene at Skandal, which reopened in 2025 after an extension, offered a packed terrace with a DJ, becoming a hub for evening socializing.
The Rise of Solo Travel
Solo travel has shifted from a niche activity to a mainstream trend. Colum McLornan, founder of Friendship Travel, noted that travelling alone was once viewed with hesitation. Today, it is celebrated for the independence and flexibility it offers. Solo holidays are now one of the fastest-growing segments in the travel industry.
The trip included daily breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner with wine on five evenings. Six days of group ski lessons were also part of the package. The cost for a seven-night stay in a private room starts at £1,820 per person. Return rail travel from London to Grenoble is available via Eurostar. The experience highlights how organized group trips can provide structure and social connection for those travelling alone.
Source: The Guardian
