Lee Cartwright: Joint Owner at Alp Venture

Before their second winter season takes off, we managed to catch up with joint owner, Lee Cartwright, who tells us a little more about the business and shares some tips for anyone coming to Les 2 Alpes on holiday.

Hi Lee, Tell us a little bit about Alp Venture, how it started out and where you're based

We fell in love with the Oisans region over three years ago and then decided to set up our business so we could settle here. We are based in the market town of Le Bourg d’Oisans which offers easy access to the ski resorts and airports.

How long have you been with the company?

We have been operating the business for more than a year now and we’re looking forward to our second winter season.

What makes this resort special in your opinion?

It's got spectacular natural surroundings, a choice of great outdoor activities and friendly people.

What are the best bits about your job?

Being able to meet new passengers on a daily basis and helping them to enjoy their holidays

And the worst bits?

Fitting snow chains, in a blizzard, at -10⁰C with no feeling in your fingers... Brrrr!

What is in store for the future with your business, any exciting projects in the pipelines that you can share with us?

We are increasing the number of vehicles we operate so we can offer more transfers at competitive prices.

What are your personal and professional goals for the future?

Personal goals are to become technically a better skier to try ski touring and also snowboarding. Professionally I would like to develop the business with more vehicles so we can cover more transfers.

What's your favourite piste or off-piste area & top tip to go skiing?

My favourite piste is Signal 1, a lovely wide Blue which never gets too crowded.

Your personal favourite place for lunch or dinner?

Crepes a Gogo in town but you'll need to forget about your waistline!

What has been your best ever day in this resort?

Any fresh powder day with bright sunshine and fantastic mountain views.

Do you remember your first trip to Les Deux Alpes?

Yes, I was staying in Venosc at the time so we went up to the resort in the cable car. I thought it was a very charming resort with all the wooden chalets and amazing views of the Muzelle mountain. The variation of skiing available is second to none.

What's your favourite thing to do in 2 Alpes when not skiing?

Sitting in the sunshine with a cold drink taking in the atmosphere.

What do you do in the summer?

We continue operating our transfer business over the summer months catering for the many mountain bikers, road cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts who visit the area. Many of them enter the numerous competitions and events available in the region.

Personally I’m a keen road cyclist so I try to ride as often as possible and I also follow the Tour de France when it’s in the area.

Which is your favourite shop in resort?

I like mooching around all the ski shops to see what new gear is available.

Where are we most likely to find you for après-ski?!

Smokey Joes is good to catch up with friends over a locally brewed Goodwin beer.

Skiing or snowboarding? What's your preference & why?

I only ski at the moment as I wanted to try ski touring but I’m planning on trying snowboarding this year as it looks more fun on fresh powder.

If someone was coming here for the first time, what would you suggest they absolutely must do or see in resort?

Go to the top of the Glacier as the views are breath-taking and then visit the Panobar on the way back down for a party.

Alp Venture offer affordable and reliable airport transfers to Les Deux Alpes. Get in touch with them for a quote for your next holiday.