1861 Châtel Hostel

The food was tasty, nicely presented, and great value, and the bar has a cozy feel with good beers on tap. Service in both the restaurant and bar was warm and friendly. It’s easy to walk to from most apartments and chalets between Linga and Pre le Joux. We didn’t stay at the hostel, but judging by the bar and restaurant, it seems well maintained.

We preferred staying here to a cramped, cheaper Air BNB with little room or in the way of facilities. The rooms and shared spaces are basic, but they were really clean, and the kitchen is well equipped. The hostel team were helpful and friendly throughout. It’s a short drive or bus ride to the Pre La Joux lifts, so it worked well for skiing. The building is a former hotel set up for hostel stays. We met lovely people, including plenty of 'seasonaires' and interesting characters from around the world. If you’re sociable and open to meeting people, you’ll get more out of a place like this. Thanks to the team at 1861 for a great holiday. We’d love to come back sometime. We wanted to leave you a good review. Ben, Alice, Jemima, Dillon

The main downside is the distance from Chatel itself. Free buses run every 10 minutes during the day, but for evenings out you’ll need the hostel shuttle. It costs 9 euros for 2-3 people, with a lower price for larger groups. Inside, the beds are comfortable, the place is warm and clean, and every room has an ensuite shower, though the toilets are shared and kept clean. Breakfast is a plentiful continental spread. Jason, the owner, speaks excellent English and couldn’t have been more helpful. There’s a TV and sitting room with a wonderful mountain view, plus a cozy bar that’s often busy with locals and instructors, so apres ski can be good. You can order pizza and burgers to have with your drinks.

The team has a great spirit, and they welcome you into a lovely little bar. There’s a bus to the village and slopes right in front of the hostel. Best part, ask the team to play Mario kart beer!