The Morzine-based chalet-holiday company AliKats, who have made increasing strides through recent seasons to become ever-more environmentally responsible, have announced new initiatives for the coming winter.
For guests staying with AliKats in their catered or self-catering accommodation this winter, it means they can save up to 20% off their accommodation when they choose to “ski greener” this season.
To save money, visitors must book an AliKats chalet exclusively for the week, travel by train, opt out of the hot tub, and eat a plant-based diet.
AliKats say that they have homed in on these three criteria due to its pledge to reduce the carbon footprint of food and travel; cut CO2 from air travel, decrease the electricity needed to keep the hot tub water at 37.5 degrees centigrade and stop water waste – especially following the drought in France.
The 20% off accommodation offer is available on selected low-season weeks in January 2023, with 15% off available on selected dates in March and 10% in early December 2022 late April 2023. Bookings must be made before 31 December 2022.
AliKats have also calculated that using a hot tub is very water and energy intensive so not a good fit with cutting energy use and rising energy costs. They’re therefore offering a €200 saving to those who chose not to have theirs turned on during their stay during an autumn, winter, and spring holiday. Those who do decide to opt-out will see €200 subtracted from their balance of a week-long holiday booking, or €100 taken away for a weekend stay
The move is part of an updated sustainability strategy from the company which now has 12 high-end chalets in its portfolio. Each chalet is powered by electricity from 100% renewable energy, and the company has worked with all the owners to install heating systems based on renewable energy, such as air source heat pumps.
They have also purchased two electric vehicles for use around the resort, reducing the amount of meat served, implemented a composting system and set up a vegetable garden, hen run and planted fruit and nut trees all suited to the alpine climate.
The food waste from the chalets feeds the chickens, which in turn provides nutrients for the soil used to grow food, which in turn feeds AliKats’ guests – a complete cycle. This, and the composting system, meant AliKats achieved zero food waste last year.
