Alp-solutely fabulous! Recapping Ski Buzz 2025 with Yvonne Verstandig
Each year Y Travel's co-founder Yvonne and her brother Danny - both former ski instructors - host Ski Buzz, a European alpine adventure for passionate ski bums with a taste for the extraordinary. Now celebrating its tenth year, Ski Buzz has earned a reputation for it’s meticulous planning, handpicked accommodation, expert local guides, exceptional culinary experiences and unique off-piste adventures that you won’t find in any brochure.
Our 2025 Ski Buzz safari sold out in record time, with 14 enthusiastic travellers joining an epic 11-day journey across the snow capped alps of the French Savoie, and the Italian Aosta Valley. We caught up with Yvonne still “buzzing” post her return - to hear all about this year's adventure.
The French experience: Rustic luxury in Savoie
"From the moment we arrived at the Eleven Experience Chalets in Savoie, I knew we were in for something special," Yvonne recalls. Greeted with champagne and a leisurely lunch, the group eased into alpine life with style - a tone that carried through the rest of the journey. "Most of our group had been on at least one Ski Buzz trip before, and immediately welcomed the newcomers. From that first moment, we knew it was going to be a fantastic 11 days."
"The French chalets were a highlight for all - rustic yet elegant, set in the quaint village of Le Miroir. The service at the Eleven Chalets was nothing short of extraordinary.”
Mornings began with the scent of fresh coffee drifting through the chalets and a gourmet breakfast spread laid out: warm, freshly baked pastries, homemade muesli, local cheeses and hams, eggs-your-way and a zingy ginger shot to kick things off. The perfect start to each day. “While we ate, our guides prepped our gear and loaded our skis into the vans ready for the day's adventure. All we had to do was show up!”
In the ski room, each guest had their own dedicated locker with boot and glove warmers, sunscreen, and neck buffs. “There was even a fridge stocked with a selection of beverages and homemade snacks by our in-chalet chef Anna, to help us stay hydrated and well-fuelled on the slopes."
The group were lucky enough to try six different French resorts - Val d’Isère, Sainte Foy, Tignes, La Plagne, Les Arcs, and La Rosière. The expert Eleven Experience guides, led by local legend Jean Noel, knew every hidden run and secret lunch spot. “The slope-side dining was next level – everyone raved about the lunches. It was the perfect midday recharge before heading back out.”
Beyond the skiing, Ski Buzz is known for its thoughtful surprises – and this year, the Eleven Experience team truly raised the bar. After a scenic 40-minute hike through snowy forest trails, the group arrived at a remote hamlet of rustic alpine huts, nestled high in the mountains. “Welcomed with warm drinks, fur throws, a crackling bonfire, and the rhythmic sounds of steel drums, we watched the sun set behind the peaks – it was one of those pinch-me moments.”
As the stars emerged, the group gathered inside one of the cozy huts for a classic alpine fondue, paired with wine, games, and lots of laughter. The night wrapped up with a magical moonlit trek back to the chalets – headlamps glowing, spikes strapped on, and hearts full!
Another highlight for the final night in France was a private French wine tasting, thoughtfully curated just for our group. “Our hosts rolled out a map of France and guided us through the different wine regions. We lounged in our Ski Buzz t-shirts, wine glasses in hand, taking turns at the dartboard and soaking in the cozy chalet vibes. That’s the beauty of chalet life – you get to take over the space as a group, relax, and really connect. It was the perfect send-off before heading into Italy.”
The Italian adventure: Dolce vita in the Aosta Valley
After five unforgettable nights in France, the group bid adieu to Savoie—capping off the morning with the rare thrill of skiing across an international border. By the end of the day, it was ciao bella as they cruised into Italy’s Aosta Valley, arriving at the elegant Montana Lodge & Spa in La Thuile.
The Italian leg reached its peak—literally—after an overnight snowfall transformed the slopes. “We woke to fresh powder and excitedly headed off to neighbouring Courmayeur. It turned into our best ski day: soft powder, fresh tracks, tree runs and Mont Blanc dominating the backdrop. We finished up with a long lunch on a sun-drenched terrace and a walk through this chic Italian ski resort. A truly magical day!”
The cultural shift added a new layer to the experience. “With Italian guides, it wasn’t just about the skiing—it was about soaking up la dolce vita.” Evenings featured wine tastings from the Aosta Valley and Piedmont and a fun night out in local trattorias. One standout dish? Carbonade Valdostana—a rich, slow-cooked beef stew served over creamy, cheesy polenta. Comfort food at its alpine best.
And of course, no Ski Buzz trip would be complete without the nightly “Schmuck and Hero Awards” and the photo competition—a much-loved tradition. “It’s all part of the camaraderie that makes these trips so special.”
The Ski Buzz spirit
What makes Ski Buzz so special? It’s the perfect blend of flexibility, fun, and friendship. “Our group this year had eight strong skiers and eight intermediates. Most of the time we skied together, but we’d also split up based on mood or preference. Even the advanced skiers occasionally joined the intermediate group for a more relaxed day. It’s all about making it your own.”
This year’s conditions were nothing short of spectacular. “We had seven bluebird days—seven days of sunshine! That’s why we love spring skiing. We often still get a fresh snow dump, but without the January weather. It’s sunnier, more comfortable, and this year was hands-down the best we’ve ever had.”
Beyond the slopes, Ski Buzz is really about the shared moments. “It’s those memories made together—pushing yourself on a challenging run, laughing over a long lunch, or soaking in the hot tub with a G&T after a big day on the mountain. It’s also about immersing yourself in the local culture, savouring incredible food and wine, and doing it all alongside a small group of people who, by the end, feel more like family. That’s the magic of Ski Buzz.”
Join us for Ski Buzz 2026!
We’re now taking expressions of interest for Ski Buzz 2026 – and while the final dates and destinations are still being fine-tuned, one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be another unforgettable alpine adventure. Spaces are very limited and if this year’s sold-out tour is anything to go by (it filled up before we even went public!), be sure to submit your details below to get in the lift line for our next Ski Buzz adventure!