YEARBOOK 2019 - | Compagnie des Alpes
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YEARBOOK 2019
FO R 30 Y E A R S, S TE P BY S TE P TOWA R DS A COMMO N FU T UR E
2 3
Dominique Marcel,
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
EDITORIAL
of Compagnie des Alpes
With 23.6 million visitors welcomed, more than €200 million invested and operating and net
income that was double compared to 2012–2013, 2019 was a vintage year for Compagnie des
Alpes. A year all the more meaningful in that 2019 marked the Group’s 30 th anniversary.
THIRTY YEARS IN WHICH A PUBLIC INITIATIVE PROMOTING MOUNTAIN AREAS
HAS TURNED INTO A LEADING GROUP IN THE LEISURE INDUSTRY
2019 was also a special moment, one demonstrating the soundness of a strategy that has been
in place for several years, and engagement thanks to the extraordinary commitment and multi-
dimensional expertise of the 5,000 people who make up and embody the entity now tagged “CDA”.
I am especially proud of these teams: it is thanks to them that for the last 30 years we - employees,
partners and stakeholders - have been advancing together step by step towards a shared future.
Because 2019 also meant a new outlook, that of even more steadfast commitment by our company
to shape a sustainable future for the regions where it operates, in partnership with the entire
ecosystem. I invite you to learn more about the path we have taken in this document that
e xplains both our inspiring history and where we are today.
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C O M PA G N I E D E S A L P E S I N 2 0 1 9 , T H E E U R O P E A N L E A D E R I N L E I S U R E
A C O M M I T T E D PA R T N E R F O R 3 0 Y E A R S
€ 42% women in headcount
39% of executives are women
5,129 2019 VALUE DISTRIBUTION 607 professional certifications (+33%)
€854 EMPLOYEES +23.6 MILLION € 1 BILLION 1.6%
255 work-study contracts (more than 5% of headcount)
MILLION IN REVENUE (X2 IN THE SEASON) VISITS € INVESTED SINCE 2012
EXTERNAL GROWTH AND
REAL ESTATE PARTNERSHIP 6.2% CDA SHAREHOLDERS
1 MASTER’S DEGREE in “Mountain Real Estate”
with INSEEC U
+60% compared to the annual 29.7%
average of the previous years 18.2%
SUPPLIER EXPENSES
ENERGY
LOCAL, REGIONAL, AND (primarily in the AuRA region) 55% renewable energy used and 86% “green”
STATE AUTHORITIES
360 MWh in RnE produced
13 10
11 In 2019,
€209.4 MILLION
BIODIVERSITY
25,000 pieces of fauna/flora data collected
LEISURE PARKS SKI AREAS in net capital expenditure from 978 inventory visits
INCLUDING 12 IN EUROPE IN FRANCE INVESTMENTS
RECYCLING
C A N AD A
13
8
9
• €102 million in ski areas 20.8% SALARIES 1,000 tonnes of steel reused
7 • €103 million in leisure parks 22% (97% of employees on sites)
6 WASTE
€381 MILLION in revenue €444 MILLION in revenue target of 100% sorting in the parks
45% of Group revenue 52% of Group revenue
9.6 MILLION visits 1 14 MILLION skier-days
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5 4
CDA MANAGEMENT TRAVELFACTORY INGELO A NETWORK OF 12 REAL
1 8 PARIS 1 7 Nearly 30 support and consulting references A leader in all-in-one skiing, Experts in quality engineering/security ESTATE AGENCIES
in 10 countries specialised in holiday rentals in France and abroad
and group getaways • 28
destination management
2 9 2 8
2 companies
12 • 345,000 customers
• 13,500 beds managed
3 10 11 10
3 9
2 • 50,000 getaway packages
3
1
3 • 25% market share
4 5
4 11 7 6 of warm spread beds
4 10
9
8 RUSSIA KAZAKHSTAN
5 12
5 11 GEORGIA
FRANCE CDA PRODUCTIONS
6 13 Artistic flair that gives (new) life
6 TURKEY OUZBEKISTAN
to cultural property
CHINA
JAPAN
7
MOROCCO
1 NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST LARGEST SHAREHOLDER 3 NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS
6 7
CONTENTS
A decade ago, Compagnie des Alpes embarked on a major proactive investment policy drawing on more
than €1 billion.
A CONSCIOUSLY ADOPTED EFFORT SUPPORTING A PROMISING,
C O M PA G N I E D E S A L P E S I N 2 0 1 9 ,
SHARED DEVELOPMENT OF ALL OUR SITES.
THE EUROPEAN LEADER IN LEISURE
All these projects testify to an approach driven by the in-depth expertise and operational excellence of
all the teams in the name of our customers’ Very High Satisfaction.
And yet 2019 was not the time to “sit back and assess”. Now 30 years young, the Group wants to take 1 . F R O M A R E G I O N T O A D E S T I N AT I O N
up new challenges to make all our sites much more than a tourist attraction, with each one now an
SKI AREAS P14
“experience destination”.
LEISURE PARKS P38
We have launched this necessary transformation with initiatives taken in accommodation, distribution,
customer knowledge and relations, digitisation, the expansion of the offering and the acquisition or
creation of new sites.
2 . F R O M V E R Y H I G H C U S T O M E R S AT I S F A C T I O N T O E N C H A N T M E N T …
Compagnie des Alpes wants all its destinations to be sustainable and eco-friendly; sustainable because
ENHANCING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
they are economically profitable, and collective because they generate shared value.
DIGITISATION: DOING WHAT MATTERS MOST AND DOING IT BEST P66
All the teams are now working to ensure that the Group and its partners maintain momentum that is
ACCOMMODATION: THE “DESTINATION” EXPERIENCE P72
at least if not more positive than today for the next ten years and beyond. All their actions are footprints
towards a sustainable future.
3. FROM RESPONSIBILITY TO COMMITMENT
REDUCING OUR ENERGY AND DIRECT CARBON FOOTPRINT P80
MANAGING RESOURCES SUSTAINABLY P82
CONTRIBUTING TO THE PROTECTION OF BIODIVERSITY AND THE ENHANCEMENT OF NATURAL AREAS P84
CONTRIBUTING TOGETHER TO THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND APPEAL OF THE TERRITORIES P88
PROMOTING INTEGRATION IN EMPLOYMENT AND DEVELOPING DIVERSITY P90
HEART OF CDA P92
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2 1
F R O M A R E G I O N T O A D E S T I N AT I O N
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Investing more than €200 million in 2019 alone, Compagnie des Alpes sets out to conti-
nuously revamp the customer experience. Beyond its innovation capacity and resources,
the Group is a driving force for attractiveness when it comes to the regions where sites
are located. The arrival of an attraction or a structural redevelopment enables every
nearby ecosystem to benefit from the economic and societal spin-offs connected to the
increase in numbers of visitors. These are stakeholders who become close partners and
are involved at different stages and different levels in projects that are deeply anchored
in a region, breathing life into a shared ambition.
OUR FOOTPRINT: Invest, co-invest, share
10 11
1989-2019
Integration of the
Deux Alpes area
2009 2011 2011 2012
First projects of CDA • Integration Closure of
Management in Russia of Futuroscope Bioscope
2007 2007-2008 and in Morocco • Sale of 2013
Flaine sets up • Integration of Val d’Isère 7 non-strategic parks • Launch of Foncière Rénovation
the first Environmental and share capital developments Streamlining and strategic Montagne, intended to renovate
Observatory in Europe • Minority stake in Avoriaz, refocus, consistent with 500 lodges and market them to skiers
Valmorel and La Rosière Compagnie des Alpes’ growth • Opening of the first Grévin abroad
ambitions in Canada
1989 2010 • Launch of an online ski holiday sales
Creation of the Compagnie des Alpes
2009 Financial restructuring
• Creation of an International Development website, Alpes Ski Résa
by the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations 2010 and New Business Lines Department
• Strategic change and intensification:
2005 the Very High Level of Customer
2006 Satisfaction (TGS) becomes the governing
Compagnie des Alpes becomes principle of the leisure parks’ strategy
2013
a solid key player in leisure
1989-1990 destinations in Europe, with Opening of Grévin Prague
Integration of Tignes seven new parks including Walibi (Czech Republic)
and Peisey-Vallandry Belgium, Holland and Rhône-Alpes, 2014
Aqualibi, and Bellewaerde
1991-1994 2014-2015 2013
Integration of La Plagne,
2015 2014
• Integration of Megève via Chamonix Mont Blanc
Les Arcs and Chamonix - 2005 Tignes is the
pening of Grévin Séoul (Korea) and Sindibad (Morocco) Increased capabilities
Les Grands Montets Integration of Planète Sauvage first Green Globe-certified • O of CDA Management
Privatisation of CDA ski area in the world • irst contract with China for the Thaiwoo ski resort
F
and the Mer de Sable •S ale of 4 leisure parks in China, Russia and Japan,
for ski resorts and leisure parks
2004
Listing of CDA
on the Second Market of 2004-2005 2004
the Paris Stock Exchange Integration of Serre Chevalier Integration of Panorama Park
and Aletsch Riederalp (Switzerland) (Germany)
1994 and Pleasurewood Hills 2003 2015
(England) 2016
Integration of the Aquaparc 2016 • Opening of Chaplin’s World
de Bouveret (Switzerland)
1995 • New concession agreement for the Jardin by Grévin (Switzerland)
d’Acclimatation with LVMH • Val d’Isère and Grand Massif
Integration of Les Menuires
• Opening of a CDA subsidiary in China, and are Green Globe-certified
Compagnie des Alpes diversifies its activities and moving
continuation of international development
2016-2017 2017
into leisure destinations with the acquisition Continuation of contracts Disposal of
of the 10 parks of Groupe Grévin & Cie including • Launch of the Parc Astérix hotel plan: three hotels
1996 Musée Grévin, Parc Astérix, and France Miniature and x4.5 the number of rooms in China, which will host Fort Fun
• CDA’s first overseas operations through a minority stake the 2022 Olympic Games (Germany)
in Val d’Aoste (Italy) 2002
• Minority stake in Courmayeur (Italy)
2019 2019 2018
• Acquisition of Familypark, Adjustment to organisation with the creation of a • Acquisition of Travelfactory: CDA becomes the leading distributor
the leading leisure park Strategy, Development, and M&A Department; of ski holidays in France
1997 2000 2001 in Austria a Distribution, New Business Lines, and • Serre Chevalier is Green Globe-certified, becoming the first ski
Integration of Flaine, Integration of Méribel Minority stake in Saas-Fee • Opening of the Innovation Department; and a Communications, resort to generate its own power using the three RES
Samoëns, Morillon and Téléverbier (Switzerland) Bellewaerde Aquapark, Branding and CSR Department • Opening of the Cité Suspendue, the 2nd hotel of Parc Astérix
and Sixt (Grand Massif) (Switzerland) a water park in Belgium • Sale of Grévin Seoul and Grévin Prague
12 13
LA PLAGNE
MEMORIES THAT QUITE tion in Plagne-Bellecôte. The facility is part of activities for all audiences, based on a variety of everything”. The online platform brings together
SIMPLY LAST FOREVER the historic contract between Compagnie des themes such as “around the world” and “the all the players involved in the resort - accommo- Each year, the Festival Subli’Cimes
creates the event at the resort
The trademark of La Plagne: a festive and sporting Alpes and POMA, signed in 2017 for the delivery 5 senses”. dation providers, ski schools, transport, service
spirit that grows by the day, the DNA of a of five latest-generation machines made in La Plagne is a connected and inventive resort that and activity providers - and helps develop strong
connected and inventive resort, a seamless made- Rhône-Alpes* that boast low-noise drives and a also organises events such as activities, photo commercial ties with socio-professionals and the
low-carbon footprint. opportunities and games through its YUGE app. The landlords and renters present in the region.
to-measure experience. The winner of a Travel
Originally one of the longest and highest in the app, which now has 700,000 “Yugers” and has won At the same time, the Group has invested heavily
d’Or “French Tourist Destination” award in 2018,
Alps, the Champagny chairlift has been rede- in the region of twenty marketing awards, is in accommodation in order to maintain high
the ski area innovates to secure a Very High
signed and renovated for a smoother and more designed to add a touch of digital magic to each numbers of “hot beds” and enhance the customer
Satisfaction rating, the mainstays being event
comfortable ride to Champagny-en-Vanoise. customer stay. offering and experience. Through Foncière
creation, digital technology and marketing.
Rénovation Montagne, Compagnie des Alpes has
In addition to its facilities, La Plagne has a reputation Voted “Best social media destination” by We Like helped boost the occupancy of 18 residences and
The ski area of La Plagne, which consists of
for organising creative and festive events all year Travel in 2016, the resort continues to innovate 99 apartments in the area. It has also had a hand
11 village resorts, has been connected to Les
round in the fields of sports and culture: First Tracks, with the launch this season of La Plagne Resort, in the total renovation of residences such as
Arcs and Peisey-Vallandry since 2003 by the
Funslope, Kami Caisse, Closing Party, etc. Every the region’s first online travel agency. After Baccara and Araucaria (in partnership), and finalised
Vanoise Express, to form the Paradiski domain.
spring since 2015, the ski-runs are transformed into Plagne Access and the introduction of digital the acquisition of the Cassiopée residence.
A top winter sports resort boasting 225km of
arenas of recreation and entertainment with the payments for ski passes last season, the ski area
ski runs and 95 ski lifts, La Plagne welcomes
2-week long Subli’cimes event, voted “Concept continues to make each customer experience La Plagne is a committed resort, piloting the
large numbers of advanced skiers and hosts
Printemps du Ski” [Springtime Ski Concept] by simpler and more magical with packaged, certi- PROSNOW project coordinated by the French
alpine skiing tournaments. It is also the proud
France Montagnes. For the occasion, each of the fied and marketed offers for the one destination. Met Office, which is setting out to improve
owner of France’s only Olympic bobsleigh, luge
iconic summits features free and totally original Its mantra is “La Plagne Resort takes care of the stewardship of water resources using climate
and skeleton track; fitted out for the 1992
and weather forecasting tools that feed a snow
Olympic Games, it regularly hosts French, A structuring, ultra-modern device management system. The water component has
European and World Cup events.
also been added to the resort’s Observatory.
Over the past five years, Compagnie des Alpes
has invested heavily into the development of the
La Plagne ski area. It is about to further invest in
the modernisation and improvement of access to
the high altitude sector of Roche de Mio and the
Bellecôte glacier, at a towering 3,250 m.
Following the construction of the Crozats chair-
lift in 2018, the new Inversens chairlift whisks
skiers up the slopes twice as quickly to reach * Contract signed at the Critérium de la Première Neige | Val d’Isère,
Daille | Tignes, Brévières | Méribel, Legends | La Plagne, Inversens |
beautiful high altitude areas and relieve conges- Serre Chevalier, Côte Chevalier
14 15
LES ARCS | PEISEY-VALLANDRY
A new funicular that opens to the landscape The Aiguille Rouge development, the ski area’s highest point
PIONEERS IN AN EXTRAORDINARY SPACE FOR 50 YEARS ALREADY Providing a playground with 425 km of slopes
A pioneer in 1968 with a strong identity as an integrated ski and “summer-winter” resort from necessarily requires sound management. Since
the start, the Arcs ski area, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, is continuing its 2012, the ski area has thus established an envi-
transformation to revamp its unique location and offer a year-round playground open to all. ronmental observatory to study and map the
A major, innovative international resort, its efforts are currently focused on renewing the Vallée region’s fauna and flora: this observatory is fully
de l’Arc, with its incredible environment and panoramic views, by redefining it in a comprehen- integrated into the process of preparing and
sive, sustainable way. designing new development projects in order to
reconcile its activities with environmental protection
Among the first resorts created with the through the free flow of information and interac- concerns.
Mountain Plan, the area joined Compagnie des tion in a simple, pleasant way. The area is also working towards the sound man-
Alpes at the start of the 1990s. The creation in agement and consumption of its resources: use of
2003 of the Paradiski ski region, which comprises Committed to magnifying and securing the expe- electricity from renewable energy sources only
La Plagne and Peisey-Vallandry in particular rience in all respects, the area recently completed and of less-polluting GTL fuel, 50% increase in
- both resorts that also belong to the Group - the Vallée de l’Arc project and opened Arcs 1600. water resources thanks to a new machine room
was a real revolution. One of the largest ski areas As such, after the Pré-Saint-Esprit chair lift last that has made it possible to optimise the filling of
in the world, it has set several records with the winter, the new Comborcière four-seater chair hillside reservoirs, installation of photovoltaic
largest cable car in the world at the time of lift today provides faster access to a wider slope panels this summer at two ski lift stations, etc.
commissioning, and the Aiguille Rouge piste that equipped with artificial snow and boasting an
offers the longest altitude drop in Europe. unobstructed view of Mont Blanc. Labelled “20th Century Heritage”, the Area has
been designed since its creation to blend into the
landscape and offer everyone a perfect view of
A vast region with multiple features: the Arcs The ski area is constantly investing to promote
the exceptional panorama. Natural elements,
Peisey-Vallandry area has succeeded in acquiring its iconic location, with a single goal: providing
widespread use of bay windows and elevated
the necessary means to ensure smooth traffic everyone with easy access to exceptional pano-
balconies to look outwards, pedestrian villages:
flow very early on. ramic views in summer and winter alike.
the urban-planning and architectural choices of
The funicular between Bourg-Saint-Maurice and Last winter, it built an unprecedented walkway at
Charlotte Perriand, French architect and designer,
Arc 1600 this year celebrated its 30th year in Aiguille Rouge, its peak: accessible from Arc 2000, Designed as a four-season resort from its creation,
met this dual ambition from the start.
operation. Building on the area’s characteristic spirit built by INGELO and Les Arcs Domaine Skiable the Arcs/Peisey-Vallandry ski area provides a
of constant innovation and customer experience (ADS) in collaboration with the local ecosystem, wide range of recreational and sporty activities Today, the ski area has the largest number of
renewal, it is now making way for new ultra- this 22 metre-long staggering structure boasts a promoted via its summer package, Hero: night renovated beds of Compagnie des Alpes, thanks
modern, fully-glazed trains with a panoramic view. breathtaking 360° view in winter and summer. skiing, 3,800 m² aquatic area with an unobstructed to the efforts of Foncière Rénovation Montagne
The Paradiski YUGE mobile app, “the essential view of Mont Blanc, snowpark, slalom, 2 boarder and incentives to encourage owners. PEISEY-VALLANDRY: ALL SET FOR ANOTHER 30 YEARS
companion for a trip to Les Arcs”, accessible A new cable car, relaxation area and beginner cross trails, 2 sledding trails, 3 themed slopes, The renewal and dynamism of the area, driven by The Arcs Domaine Skiable (ADS) ski area has signed a new 30-year Public Service Concession for the
everywhere via 60 Wi-Fi hotspots, is another area are also planned for next season, together etc. It also has an FFCT-labelled bike park open the Group, also enhance the establishment of Peisey-Vallandry ski area. With a panoramic view of the peaks of Mont Blanc, the Vanoise and
symbol of this determination to showcase an with a zip line running along the Kilomètre Lancé to all levels, with trails for all mountain biking attractive resorts targeting French and interna- the Tarentaise Valley, the location also enjoys significant natural snow cover, combined with high-
exceptional ski area and to facilitate discovery (speed skiing) slope. disciplines. tional customers. performance and comfortable ski lifts.
16 17
The Group participated YUGE, the app for making the most
in the complete overhaul of the Paradiski experience
of the Araucaria residence
at La Plagne
At Les Arcs, Aiguille Rouge offers a view
that takes your breath away
Charlotte Perriand, Bernard Taillefer,
La Plagne has the only
and Roger Godino, the forces behind
Olympic bobsleigh, luge,
the signature architecture at Les Arcs
and skeleton run in France
18 19TIGNES
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS TO SUSTAINABLY ENHANCE Tignes is also pursuing its policy of gradually
A UNIQUE HERITAGE reducing the number of ski lifts, thereby reducing
In September 2018, the ski area launched the first stage of its Altitudes Expériences… project, its impact on the environment: three lifts have
along with the world’s highest open-top cable car. Besides the technical challenge, the project been dismantled to make way for the new Les
is exemplary in showing that it is possible to renew and enhance tourism in our mountains while Brévières gondola lift, resulting in the removal of
limiting our impact. The ski area, which has been awarded Green Globe certification, has the set 41 pylons, 5 stations and 7,300km of cable. This
goal of becoming a creator of new mountain-based activities and excitement to a backdrop of project is part of an overall process to modernise
climate change, and of driving the responsible economic development of the region. the gateway to Tignes and redevelop the whole
area; it includes reshaping the snow front but
also the construction of a new multi-facility
The promise of Altitude Expériences… is to to rethink its tourism by no longer focusing solely
building with a picnic room, ski lockers and an
deliver a unique all-season ascent of 2,000 m up on winter and skiing, and by innovating to maintain
open-window sales counter.
to the Grande Motte glacier at an altitude of essential links with high-altitude regions.
3,456 m, offering a breathtaking 360° panoramic
Modernising and developing the region also involves
view of the glacier, the Vanoise National Park Driven by this certainty, the ski area has intro-
working on accommodation with a commitment
and the Tignes-Champagny nature reserve. duced new initiatives such as cleaning up the
to improving the range of lodging options. STGM
glacier in collaboration with the Vanoise National
has successfully completed an extensive renova-
Piloted and promoted by teams from Société des Park, and participated in so-called echo days
tion project at Les Brevières and Les Boisses,
Téléphériques de la Grande Motte (STGM), the to raise environmental awareness among its
resulting in over 2,000 new “hot beds”, the latest
Compagnie des Alpes’ operating company in the customers.
of which have been developed in collaboration
area, this project was made possible thanks to
Cleaning the glacier, Showing off the cultural property to ensure with MMV Les Boisses Altaviva. Today, this
in partnership with
the collective efforts of the Vanoise National its preservation, with Altitude Experiences… sector accounts for 25% of the resort’s “hot
Vanoise National Park Park, the Departmental Directorate of Territories,
beds” with a high-end, family and international
the Regional Directorate of the Environment,
offering, reporting very good occupancy rates
Development and Housing, consulting architects, the
both in summer and winter.
Natura 2000 Observatory, the Association France
Nature Environnement Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes,
the CNRS, and numerous scientific committees.
Designed to withstand extreme weather condi-
tions and blend in perfectly with its surroundings,
the cable car belongs to a new generation of
machines boasting the latest technology in terms
of comfort and safety. This first stage, which also
includes a fun and educational experience, marks
a new, coherent and rational way for an ecosystem
20 21VAL D’ISÈRE
VERY HIGH “VERY HIGH SATISFACTION” Val d’Isère also pays special attention to limiting its organizing a yearly clean-up of the Massif de
For the ski area with high satisfaction ratings, the visitor experience must be exemplary - both impact on the environment while fitting into the Solaise with local partners and resident
complete and seamless. The redevelopment of the Tête de Solaise, a pioneering sector with its landscape: reducing the number of pylons, greening volunteers.
own cable car built in 1942, fits with our drive to offer breathtaking high-altitude skiing to up the infrastructure, and building stations out of La Daille:
everyone, no matter what their level. stone and wood, in the spirit of the village. As a stakeholder active in the community, STVI, a state-of-the-art POMA facility,
both comfortable and modern
the Val d’Isère ski area operating company and
Following Bellevarde (2002) and Solaise (2016), Val d’Isère, a pilot resort taking a user-experience Because it is so close to Vanoise National Park, subsidiary of Compagnie des Alpes for more than
a new, ultra-modern ski lift was opened at Val approach, has mobilised every player in its area the ski area is also committed in joint action to a decade, also takes part in the POEC (préparation
d’Isère, with the 10-person gondola at La Daille. around the Val Digital Project. The goal is to preserve its heritage, including replanting along opérationnelle à l’emploi collective – operational
A more than €10 million investment, this become a real e-resort, a wired village, by relying the edges of the ski lifts after doing any work to preparation for collective employment) begun by
cutting-edge POMA facility is both comfortable on digital tech to provide simpler holidays and them, protecting the bearded vulture and the the Group, allowing first-timers to acquire the
and modern. Its Symphony premium cars, enhanced experiences. black grouse, two endangered bird species, and basic skills for jobs in the tourist industry.
designed by the Italian designer of Ferrari and On the agenda: a mobile app, digital information
Maserati, offers heated seats, a roomier interior, kiosks, packages for purchase via smartphone,
panoramic view, Wi-Fi, and more, for gliding above free Wi-Fi, and technology built into the ski lifts.
the legendary Oreiller Killy run. A new welcome The ValKids space, to discover the snow sports Very high “Very High Satisfaction”
and mountain jobs while having fun
centre and sales outlet has also been built at the Digital mobility, geographic mobility: in the
base of the lift. This facility solidifies the ski area, spring of 2019, the resort launched the beta
now in its 80th year and still riding the crest of version of the Snow Express, a high-speed train
innovation and guest experience. direct from Paris, with guest services from the Gare
de Lyon to their lodging. With its commitment to
With the same goal of revitalizing the 3000 sector the environment, the Green Globe certified ski
on Solaise, the historic TK3000 drag lift, built on area, the first ski area ISO 50001-certified for its
the Solaise skiing area in 1962, has been renovated energy management, works to reduce its impact
and modernized to cross the peak of Leissières on the environment while optimising guest
while providing a one-of-a-kind e xperience, satisfaction through greater accessibility.
through the tunnel to the Fornet sector. There’s
no shortage of accommodations offering everyone In terms of energy, the area, like all of the
a unique and exceptional high-altitude experience: Group’s ski areas, is committed to using 100%
the ValKids area, so that children can play snow renewable energy and reducing its water use
sports and learn about the jobs that keep the resort with energy-efficient equipment. This is a major
running; a luxury picnic room, named Le Lounge, commitment for Europe’s largest snow workshop,
that offers a stunning view of the Massif offering which supplies the ski area in responsible artificial
everyone a unique and exceptional high-altitude snow-making using no additives, just water, air,
experience. and cold.
22 23LES MENUIRES
THE HEART OF THE 3 VALLEES: for a facility as good as new... only better: all of hillside reservoir with its 80,000 m3 high-altitude In December 2018, with the support of SEVABEL,
100% FRIENDLY, the foundation blocks and pylons have been reservoir, its new snow factory and the extension Les Menuires ski resort furthered its climate
reused, stations have been overhauled and loading of its production network. The reasonable and commitment to become the leading French
100% COLLECTIVE areas modernised. collective use of these water resources will help resort to join the POW Resort Alliance, coordi-
The gateway to 3 Vallées, Les Menuires ski area
supply water to the community for agricultural nated by the Protect Our Winter association. As Summer in Belleville Valley
is a model of engagement and collective effort
Over and above this project, work has been con- purposes or for drinking water, as the case may be. such, the resort takes a leading stance in climate
by all local stakeholders: Société d’exploitation
ducted on several slopes to improve the beginner initiatives thanks to an ambitious environmental
de la Vallée des Belleville (SEVABEL), organising
skiing experience in the Bruyères sector: a com- Water management is also a key priority of the and social plan. The aim is to show that collec-
authorities, local politicians and other stake-
prehensive vision to improve the experience for project to restore the Plan de l’Eau des Bruyères tive action and advocacy in favour of the climate
holders. Assembled under the label Friendly
everyone, going up or down. bogland, at the foot of Menuires. The challenge of can have a positive impact and that it is not too
Menuires and built on the basis of design
these Nature 2050 programme: to improve the late to protect our playgrounds together.
thinking, the initiatives conducted jointly to
Artificial snow-making has reached a coverage management of frequent flooding while maintaining
promote tourism and customer incoming are
rate of 55% - one of the highest in the Group. tourism through the preservation of biodiversity. It was also in this setting that Les Menuires ski
aimed at revitalising the ski area and making it
The construction of hillside reservoirs is a real A matter of great importance for all the area’s area recently took a decisive turn with its decision
a brilliant site: accommodation, environment,
challenge to coordinate water management and stakeholders: integrated into the heart of the to help develop a shared positioning focused on
digitalisation and infrastructure are all part of
snow cover in the lowest parts of the ski area, Vanoise National Park, Les Menuires ski area shows the “summer mountain”, across the whole valley.
the picture. In addition to remaining competi- its awareness of the challenges posed by environ- More than sixty players have joined forces to
together with links to secure the start and end
tive, the ski area aims to offer a global seamless mental protection in the face of climate change. tackle this major challenge in order to prove that
of seasons. That is the goal of the new Masse
and enhanced customer experience. “the mountain is not for winter only!”.
Friendly Menuires, a unique
A part of Compagnie des Alpes since 1991, state of mind for all the players
In addition to these investments in the ski area,
Les Menuires ski area is constantly modernising SEVABEL plays a leading role in boosting occu-
and streamlining its facilities. The goal is to offer pancy rates and filling up the destination.
its customers the greatest comfort and quick
access to the ski area. Agence Immobilière de la Vallée des Belleville, a
real estate agency and Group subsidiary, markets
An essential facility to ascend Les Menuires ski more than 600 units and is the largest agency in
area and travel across the 3 Vallées, the Bruyères the valley. SEVABEL is also contributing, along-
1 and 2 cable car has been seriously overhauled side local authorities, to the renovation and
to mark its 30th anniversary. remarketing of some fifty apartments every year.
The modernisation of the two legs and the quality Lastly, thanks to the incoming agency Les Menuires
and comfort of its eight-seat cars are designed and Saint-Martin Tours, SEVABEL is boosting the
to improve the customer experience. It also destination’s international promotion to foreign
provides a freer-flowing connection to the other tour operators.
ski areas (direct link to Méribel and Val Thorens)
and enhanced performance. A new lease on life
24 25MÉRIBEL
HUMANISM, EXPERTISE from the Plan de l’Homme chair lift, which was By offering tailored support, the structure
dismantled in spring 2018. It lets skiers access persuades owners to rent out their property
AND AGILITY
quality high-altitude ski slopes in a shorter time. ( previously excluded from the rental pool),
Premium hoods in the six-seat Located in the heart of the world’s largest ski
Legends chairlift With its premium, comfortable seats embroidered thereby allowing holiday-makers to stay in apart-
area, Méribel has often positioned itself as a
with the colours of ski champions who have ments, lofts or chalets that are often quite
forerunner in investments aimed at ski lifts and
marked the resort’s history, the new Legends exceptional. The concierge system also offers a
mountain developments: multi-leg gondola lifts,
chairlift replaces the Plan de l’homme and Roc de multitude of fully personalised services and
artificial snow network, etc. A core identity and
Fer chair lifts. Fewer pylons, stations with archi- experiences to holiday-makers, underpinned by
values encouraged by Compagnie des Alpes,
tecture that echoes the landscape and creation a human, authentic approach.
which the resort joined in 2000. Today, whereas
the area is preparing to host the 47th edition of of an underground garage to store the lifts
off-season: the chair lift has been designed to The CRM project launched two years ago in part-
the Alpine Ski World Championships in 2023, the
limit visual pollution and blend perfectly with its nership with the Tourism Office, the Trois Vallées
resort continues to be motivated by a determi-
surroundings. company and several professionals of the resort,
nation to retain this technological leadership
confirms this commitment and the wish to
and its role as a driving force across the valley.
These two new chair lifts aim to develop acces- offer a tailored unprecedented service that is
just right.
The new challenge? Enabling the hosting of the sibility to the world’s largest ski area and ensure
2023 Alpine Ski World Championships while a wide customer base, from intermediate to
sustainably improving the comfort and enjoyment advanced skiers, with quick and effective links.
of skiers: an ambitious project implemented in The Col de la Loz by bike
partnership with the community of Les Allues, and Méribel remains mindful of offering activities for
for which Méribel Alpina will invest a lot in the all four seasons, not only skiing. It has considered
next two years. The planned developments developing a cycling trail along the crest line and
include: two new ski slopes, a network of artificial has opened the Col de la Loze, now a stage of the
snow and a tunnel to enhance skiing comfort. Tour de France and a spur for the development of
cycling in the area.
An important component of this programme and
a strong challenge for the ski area is the recon- An accessible and all-season mountain resort,
figuration of the Roc de Fer/Cherferie slope for Méribel’s leitmotiv today is “welcome to our home”.
skiers to quickly and comfortably rediscover the The concierge approach, which has been under trial
legendary runs while skilfully managing raw for the last two years, is an innovation. Completely
materials and landscape blending. unprecedented within Compagnie des Alpes, it is
Two new self-disengaging chair lifts, Legends and disrupting the resort’s marketing approach by riding
Cherferie, were thus inaugurated at end-January the wave of renting between individuals and is
2019. The majority of the components of the emerging as an obvious link between the owner of
new Cherferie six-seater chair lift were recovered furnished properties and holiday tenants.
26 27Mountain biking, one of the new all-season sports
developed at our resorts
Giving the Les Bruyères chairlift
a makeover at Les Menuires
The guest experience
for every age
1991: Solaise Express,
the first bubble chairlift
Le Lounge and its unbeatable view:
a unique high-altitude experience at Val d’Isère
28 29SERRE CHEVALIER
AN INNOVATIVE SKI AREA, THE GROUP’S “LABORATORY” resort has been hosting the “Serre Che Trail” run Accessibility, experience and technological
The 11 largest French ski resort and the largest ski area in the Southern Alps, Serre Chevalier is
th for six years now, a high-altitude mountain trail innovation: the area continues to innovate, for
also ranked in the Top 30 ski resorts worldwide. With thirty-year concessions, the oldest of which run at the foot of the Écrins and Meije glaciers, example with digital ski-passes and packages, Eychauda outfitted
with solar panels
dates back to 1998 and the newest set to run until 2047, it’s all hands on deck for the Compagnie in the protected and untouched parts of the which this year have moved up to a higher level.
des Alpes teams, who are working to develop the future of this resort, a real Group laboratory: Cerces mountains.
a land of experimentation with a long-term vision for sustainable mountain holidays. In order to prepare for the future, adapt to
Serre Chevalier has also developed an original climate change and protect its heritage, Serre
Shared by the entire ecosystem, the Serre Chevalier deployed a variety of Group tools by purchasing, activity: mountain go-karts on two fully-fitted Chevalier has always been committed to limiting
area’s ambition is driven by an important investment renovating and marketing more than 100 apartments, tracks stretching 1,050 m and 1,300 m with a its impact. The establishment of Côte Chevalier
programme implemented by the Group. Its major while also co-financing with CDC the 400-bed 120 m altitude drop. has for example benefited from measures like
focus points: improving the customer experience, Aquisana residence as from 2016. To boost distri- reducing the number of pylons, keeping an inven-
The area is doing the same with its plan to
developing smooth-flowing traffic, but also making bution, the area also recently got equipped with a tory of wildlife species, protecting wetlands,
develop 3-star picnic areas. The brainchild of
an active contribution to the future economic re-vegetation, etc.
dedicated B2B structure, SerreChe Tours. the resort’s employees, always keen to ensure
growth of the Valley and the region’s sustainable Very High Satisfaction among customers, these
development. Green Globe certified since 2018, Serre Chevalier
Although skiers are at the top of the agenda with areas offer barbecues, tables and deckchairs is active on a number of fronts: lower fuel con-
projects focused on ski lifts, maintenance and that blend in with the environment, together sumption for maintenance vehicles, a lower
The vast project aimed at renovating the ski lifts
artificial snow-making, the Serre Chevalier area with solar charging points and Wi-Fi access in a number of ski lifts, snow-making machines, etc.
started three years ago and so meets the needs
is thinking beyond the winter season and ski- setting that boasts breathtaking panoramic Today, the area is going the extra mile as it
for accessibility and free-flowing traffic across all
only activities. In partnership with Salomon, the views. becomes a venue for experimentation with
four sectors of the ski area. After Rocher Blanc in
2018, and before Eychauda next year, the Côte renewable energies: in 2021, Serre Chevalier will NEXT STAGES:
Picnic with a stunning panoramic view
produce 30% of its electricity via three renewable EYCHAUDA AND CIBOUIT
Chevalier chair lift, inaugurated in January 2019,
energies (solar, wind and hydraulic). The devel-
brings Villeneuve de Chantemerle closer thanks The second stage of the investment plan,
opments will rely mainly on the resort’s equip-
to a higher flow rate, makes for easier access to the project to replace two chair lifts,
ment and will be developed in collaboration with
high-altitude skiing and improves the link to started in the spring of 2019. This p roject,
local craftsmen. Compagnie des Alpes is focusing
Monêtier. The result is that today customers can which aims to improve and facilitate the
its full attention on this laboratory, which holds
enjoy the full scope of this area. customer experience and journey, aims to
huge potential for replication and exportation.
be particularly innovative in its methods
In order to prolong the experience and offer seamless and chosen technology, such as in particular
trips in this unique area, and in keeping with its the retrofitting of stations to limit “single
strategy of revitalising the region and increasing use” and manage resources more effec-
occupancy rates, Compagnie des Alpes is also tively. As such, it is boosting the area’s
making property investments. Against a backdrop positioning as a Compagnie des Alpes
of ample secondary accommodation and a limited laboratory.
supply of hotel accommodation, the area has now
30 31LES DEUX ALPES
GLACIER, SUSTAINABILITY, 2019 in the Crêtes sector. Easy to access, it has up until then of the ski area’s width. The con- Its marketing structures, SC2A and 2Alpes Immo
AND LODGING wide runs for beginners, making it a particularly struction of the new Pierre Grosse eight-seat (travel agency and real estate agency of Deux
Located on the largest skiable cold glacier in strategic location. To improve its access service gondola lift has a dual goal: creating a second Alpes Loisir) have done a great deal to boost
Europe, the Deux Alpes ski area must manage in terms of comfort and speed, the four-seat route to ascend the glacier (after dismantling visitor numbers at the resort. This is a strategy
the appeal and the challenges of this unique- self-disengaging chair lift was replaced by the Glacier 1 and 2) accessible by ski, and taking that works, because both structures are now
ness, which must be protected in a context of Glaciers 1 eight-seat equivalent, following the advantage of the ski area’s width. generating 25% of overnights and 2Alpes Immo Les Clarines, an extensive lodging project
manages 1,500 beds in the resort (10% of in the public interest, serving the resort’s vitality
climate change. Testing of the glacier’s snow relocation of Glacier 2. The objective is to make
cover is under way to rebuild ice thickness, it the new primary route to the Crêtes plateau. Ski-in and ski-out guaranteed: that is the area’s marketable beds).
and analyses are under way to understand gla- Some fifteen snow-making machines were promise, much helped by the establishment of
cial phenomena and anticipate future changes. installed to secure this sector at the start of the accommodation facilities that ensure direct The Résidence MMV des Clarines project,
These issues are central to the considerations season. access to the ski slopes and lifts. launched with the Municipality, is a public-
and major work to revitalize the resort, ongoing Indeed, in the absence of a major property plan interest project that serves the resort’s growth,
since 2009 by the Compagnie des Alpes, via At the same time, an extraordinary project was for warm beds, and in light of the constant for which delivery is slated for 2021-2022. Its
its subsidiary Deux Alpes Loisirs (DAL), which initiated to direct skiers towards the Fées sector decline of bed numbers in tourism residences, aim: to create a sustainable offering of warm
are carrying out their role and responsibility of above the legendary Combe de Chalance. Compagnie des Alpes has, while continuing to beds in a four-star segment that is limited at the
guiding and supporting the local authorities in Historically developed vertically rather than hori- responsibly redevelop the ski area, established a resort, create sustainable, affordable family
land management. lodgings, and stimulate the economy and local
zontally around a central axis whose primary aim strategy to boost potential tourism on the site.
jobs. With a total surface area of 10,600 m², the
is to reach the glacier, little use had been made In so doing, it has supported and driven the creation
Compagnie des Alpes has managed many project will offer a 160-unit/900-bed holiday
d evelopments to revamp its ski lifts and residence, a sport shop, 1,200 m² in common
redevelop the area, specifically by replacing the The Group is investing in the strategic sector facilities including a restaurant, eight affordable
of Les Crêtes with a new chairlift
Diable self-disengaging chair lift in 2012 and housing units, underground parking, and a moving
constructing the Jandry blue run in 2014, making walkway to the Soleil lodgings.
it easier to return to the resort. The July 2018
signature of a rider to the Public Service Furthering the same objective, a four-star resi-
Concession between Deux Alpes Loisirs and the dential project located at the resort’s entrance
municipalities through 2023 signaled an asser- was launched in 2019 and should be delivered in
tive and solid commitment by the company to December 2020. This would help create 460 new
develop the resort. First major step: moving the warm beds, operated by Néméa, to supplement COMMUNITY INITIATIVE: LES DEUX ALPES ASSISTED THE COL
Glacier 2 self-disengaging chair lift to replace the the Deux Alpes real estate offering. DE PORTE IN THE RELAUNCH OF THEIR SKIING ACTIVITY
Toura and Lac Noir lifts, and optimising access to In 2019, the two stations signed a three-year partnership in which Les Deux Alpes commit to supplying
These projects reflect a commitment to develop-
the snowpark and to leisure areas. equipment and technical expertise (ski lifts, artificial snow-making, landscaping, etc.) to the smaller
ing high-quality warm beds in the long term,
or upgrade of more than 1,500 beds in the resort expanding our tourist facilities, promoting the resort, while Col de Porte will invite its guests to try out the wide-open spaces of the neighbouring resort.
Ahead of the choice of a future operator, the For Antoine Pirio, CEO of DAL: “We are aware that a small resort doesn’t have access to these resources,
(Chalet du Soleil, Les Clarines, and Foncière des renovation of existing facilities, and increasing
wave of investments by the Group continued in and we are delighted to be able to support them with equipment and know-how.”
Ecrins). tourist numbers.
32 33GRAND MASSIF
A SKI AREA LIKE NO OTHER Morillon), in particular with the creation of a new Carroz are dynamic year-round with thousands Several programmes to preserve and restore the
The fifth largest ski area in France completely 2,850 metre-long self-disengaging chair lift (the of inhabitants and facilities that set them apart landscapes and natural resources (fauna, flora,
accessible on skis, which celebrates its longest in Europe) climbing 900 m and the crea- from other resorts. Associations, schools, agri- habitats, geology, wetlands, etc.) are being coor-
50th anniversary this year, combines typical tion of two new Blue runs. The creation of two cultural and artisanal activities: these places of dinated, together with programmes to preserve
villages with a unique high-altitude mountain Red runs has brought the sector’s modernisation living nurture genuine social interaction. In 2015 agricultural practices and the forest, like, for
Grand Massif has an incredible number resort in untouched natural surroundings to a close and optimises the area’s ski network. the area launched Origine Grand Massif, a example, foraying and discovery initiatives in the
of natural treasures and protected areas
facing the Mont Blanc. Its five resorts, four of collective project and unique label that strives ski area, a geological trail to explore limestone
which have been managed by Compagnie des The security and comfort of skiers are also high- to s upport the local economy in all seasons by pavements, etc.
Alpes since 1998, feature 265km of slopes and lighted with improvements to several ski tracks, p romoting expertise. Honey, meat, cheese,
a vast area of natural heritage. The challenge the implementation of preventative safety meas- together with industrial, artisanal and music
for Grand Massif lies in developing and ures (supporting structures, etc.) and the contin- products: Origine Grand Massif promotes the
modernising the customer experience while ued installation of the pilot “safetykid” system to many talents of its region and its one-of-a-kind
Typical villages, the Grand Massif identity
preserving and enhancing this unique natural ensure child safety on ski lifts: a system the Group identity.
and human heritage. will roll out across all its sites by 2021-2022.
This regional focus is also reflected in an environ-
The investment in artificial snow-making and the The area’s development and modernisation go mental commitment, which the site has embraced
creation of high-altitude reservoirs enable the hand-in-hand with an abundant supply of as one of its managerial priorities. A pioneer since
Grand Massif to secure snow cover and guarantee accommodation options: these projects are facil- 1969 through Flaine (strict management of car
the exceptional skiing experience that has itated by Compagnie des Alpes teams, as with accessibility, natural gas heating of buildings
become its trademark. This season, a hilltop the recent Club Med in Samoëns, but are also with no GHG emissions and burying of electrical
reservoir was created in the Samoëns sector, driven by its real estate agency, Flaine Immobilier, cables), Grand Massif also became the first Green
holding 35,000 m3 of water. and even developed directly via a dedicated Globe-certified ski area in 2016 for all its
structure to create new accommodation units in activities.
At Flaine, the network spans the entire Tourmaline the resort and across the Gérats region.
run and, at Morillon, part of the Marvel run. An iconic project reflecting the ski area’s envi-
A pilot site in terms of digitalisation, with its first ronmental commitment, Flaine established the
Incorporated into the Grand Massif in 1985, the dedicated website in 1999 and the implementa- first Environmental Observatory in Europe in
area’s first village resorts were created at the end tion of innovative products, Grand Massif is 2008, covering an area of 1,400 hectares across
of the 1930s. The modernisation of all ski lifts developing a strong approach that targets its five municipalities. It aims to provide an exhaustive
and an improved network of ski runs, to facilitate local customer base (Annecy-Geneva, more than inventory of the region’s biodiversity in all its forms
flows and new discovery, are thus major one million inhabitants). (landscape, fauna, flora and specific biotopes), to
challenges. monitor its development in a matter-of-fact
The collective mobilisation of the local eco manner and to find solutions to sustain this
The area expanded significantly in 2018 at the system is a core component of the Grand Massif: wealth: a pioneering project that has since been
Combe de Coulouvrier (between Samoëns and the villages of Morillon, Sixt, Samoëns and Les emulated across all CDA ski areas.
34 35The “Origine Grand Massif” label
promotes local know-how
Serre Chevalier offers
all-season go-karting
La Combe de Coulouvrier,
opened in 2018 on Grand Massif
Odalys Aquisana residence,
an example of the bed-warming strategy
Deux Alpes snowpark,
now more accessible
with the new developments
36 37PARC ASTÉRIX
MORE THAN A PARK – After Discobélix in 2016 and Pégase Express in 150 rooms of the Cité Suspendue in 2018, Parc
A DESTINATION 2017, which were also widely rewarded, Parc Astérix this year began building its third hotel,
Fun, sharing and authenticity: Parc Astérix, Astérix has confirmed its position as the flagship Les Quais de Lutèce: a four-star hotel with a
The Quais de Lutèce project in the summer of 2019 recreated river Seine. With its 150 rooms, the hotel
winner of the 2019 Travel d’Or Award for best French park.
leisure park, has already thrilled more than will increase the Park’s total capacity to 450.
50 million visitors since its first opening. A Digitalisation goes hand-in-hand with the expan-
sion of its offering. Honoured with a Top Com Eco-responsible, Les Quais de Lutèce is charac-
leading force in the strategy rolled out by
d’Or award in the Digital/Online System category terised by its water-heating system that draws
Compagnie des Alpes for its leisure destinations,
soon after it was launched in 2018, the on 70 m² of solar panels, its wooden materials
this park, now celebrating its 30th anniversary,
Atonservix chatbot reflects the drive to build up sourced from sustainably and eco-responsibly
constantly offers new, innovative attractions
customer satisfaction and simplify the customer stewarded forests, and special collaboration with
and original shows, together with an increasingly
journey. The project started in 2015 with the nearly 100% local sub-contracting companies.
immersive customer journey and experience.
Holiday destination, Parc Astérix prolongs the update of its mobile app, followed by its website
in 2016. The goal: easy access to information and Located in the heart of the Oise Regional Park,
customer experience by extending its seasonality
a smoother experience across all platforms in the park works closely with the Conservatory of
through events, and by developing original and
order to boost and simplify the experience before, Natural Sites of Picardie. Several initiatives are
authentic hotels in keeping with its identity
during and after the trip. being led to reduce waste production (in particu-
and environment.
lar plastics) at the source, and also to preserve or
restore natural areas: reasonable mowing,
Among the first leisure parks to join Compagnie Over and above the technological challenges,
eco-grazing, preserving endemic species...
des Alpes in 2002, as part of its business diversifi- Parc Astérix continues to enhance the immersive,
cation, Parc Astérix is a playground for innovations event-based experience with its fourth haunted
ISO 9001-certified in 2014, Parc Astérix has also
where immersion, digitalisation and experience house, Catacombes. The unmissable Peur sur le
established an environmental management system
are the watchwords. Parc, now celebrating its 10th anniversary, allows
backed by the requirements of the ISO 14001
the park to offer a renewed experience while
standard. Lastly, committed to improving its
This year for the first time in its history, the Park stretching its opening times. This extended sea-
energy performance, it obtained ISO 50 001
is screening a 4D film in a 300-seat cinema, Les sonality continues over the 2019-2020 season
certification in September 2018.
Studios Idéfix. A powerhouse of technology with with the Park’s very first Gallic Christmas and its
an unprecedented 3D story inspired by the comic two ice rinks and toboggan runs.
book, and dynamic seats that include effects like
wind, water and smell, Attention Menhir! has Extending the immersion is also a goal the Park
been an instant success with visitors. Ranked is pursuing with its hotel development strategy.
among the Park’s top 3 attractions in less than a The challenge: positioning itself as a short-stay
year, it was also recognised at the European Star destination and winning more long-distance
Awards, presented at the IAAPA, in the “best customers. After the expansion of Hôtel des Trois
new European attraction” category. Hiboux in 2017 and the inauguration of the first
38 39You can also read
