Chatel and a bit of Switzerland

It was an interesting move from bustling La Clusaz to sleepy Chatel near the Swiss border on the south side of Lake Geneva. With school holidays ending, most summer entertainment in the mountains shuts down and the average age of tourists increases as the tour buses replace the families. So whilst we had to search around to keep ourselves occupied we still enjoyed our time in this corner of France. A glaring omission from this town is no active playground! There is one, however it was fenced off due to a new ski-lift being built nearby. So the nearest playground was about 10 minutes drive away, over the Swiss border.

Our first full day in the town (Sunday) was the last day the ski lifts were open, so we caught the telecabin up from the centre of town and then went for a short walk to the Swiss border (about 300m away). This ski area encompasses both France and Switzerland, so bring your passport when here!

We will long remember the first day of (Australian) Spring as when Jordan's first tooth broke through. He has had a tough time with his teeth so far and now has 2 bottom teeth.....a lot more still to come though!

Our stay here also included a trip to the town market day where we tried some new local cheese, a very nice (and expensive) fig cake and some of our favourite brioche bread. We also made a trip over to Switzerland to a miniature railway park which has a variety of trains you can ride on. Matthew's favourite was definitely the steam train, especially when the driver tooted the horn, and going through the tunnels!

Matthew picking a flower in France while Heather and Jordan are resting for a moment in Switzerland

"Do you mind if we pass Mr Cow"

After watching Matthew practicing his catching with a balloon, Jordan gets very excited when he gets hold  of one

Brothers having a wonderful time together

Just about to puff away...These miniature trains and the array of railways throughout the grounds were amazing.  The 15 minute rides (especially on the steam train) were enjoyed by young and old.

Now that Jordan has sprouted his first two teeth, he needs his big brother to show him how to brush them

Most mornings Matthew and I head out for a coffee and croissant "run". Sometimes all four of us make the journey
with Matthew riding on the skateboard attached to the stroller

Asking for directions from a cow at the Chatel Market

The heated pool and fountains at the Chatel pool were fun, but nothing beats
drying your hair afterwards!