After Quebec Charlevoix and Vittel Ermitage, the essential family club now opens its doors to dog owners in Pragelato Sestriere, in the Italian Alps. What are the conditions for staying with your pet and what do parents think?
Having your pet looked after when you go on vacation requires a certain budget and a whole organization. Some opt for a trusted person to feed their cat or walk their dog, others for boarding which costs between 20 and 30 euros per day. Because, until now, few vacation spots and hotels accepted pets. But the dog friendly trend is taking hold in France and elsewhere, and that changes everything for owners who do not want to part with their four-legged companions, who are an integral part of the family.
Thus, after Quebec (Charlevoix Resort) and the Vittel Ermitage Resort, Club Med is continuing its “Dog-Friendly” offer at the Pragelato Sestriere Resort, nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps. Located in a preserved setting in Italian Piedmont, this family club in the heart of nature naturally lends itself to this type of stay where relaxation and adventure take precedence. But how is cohabitation with dogs and children going? This is precisely the question we asked ourselves while staying for four days with our 4-year-old son, slightly frightened by big doggies…
So forget about apprehensions: the spaces are large enough not to be on top of each other, dogs are required to be kept on a leash throughout the resort and areas are dedicated to them in the restaurant. We don’t really see them, and when we came across a Husky puppy or a Shiba, our child was rather curious and far from being anxious, unlike the dogs you can see in the street, sometimes without a leash.
Indeed, the conditions for staying with your pet are quite strict for owners and for the peace of mind of families: only one dog per room is allowed, a maximum weight is set at 20 kg, and a limited number of Dogs can be accommodated simultaneously within the Resort. Another essential point: you are not likely to cross paths with a Pitbull or a Rotweiller: “only breeds adapted to community life are authorized, in compliance with current legislation” specifies the club.
Thus, while the children enjoy the rather exceptional activities of the mini-club (circus, inflatable structures, discovery of nature and the vegetable garden, magic shows, etc.), parents have the luxury of enjoying manual activities such as a watercolor class or a culinary activity to learn how to prepare a delicious tiramisu worthy of Italian chefs, relax in the indoor or outdoor swimming pool or get back in shape thanks to sporting activities. But above all, don’t miss the organized excursions to observe breathtaking landscapes by taking part in a yoga class in the middle of nature, or a hike in the middle of the forest, the effort of which is quickly rewarded on arrival by the beauty of Lake Chinosetto, a pure marvel!
We shared this getaway with Margot and her dog Ice (aka @margot_grj on social media) who usually takes her everywhere with her, on all her adventures, including to take a tour of Mont Blanc. “It’s a joy to be able to take him with us on vacation, go hiking together and enjoy nature“, confided to us the owner of Ice, aged 9. Her Border collie followed the group, quenching its thirst on small streams. A great experience where everyone found their place in a refreshing setting.
Ultimately, experience shows that cohabitation between families, children and dog owners occurs without any problem, in mutual respect and total harmony. Far from being a source of tension, the presence of these four-legged companions brings an additional touch of conviviality to vacationers. Courtesy rules are well respected and dedicated walking areas help preserve everyone’s peace and quiet. By opening its mountain resorts to our loyal companions, Club Med confirms its desire to leave no member of the family behind, offering owners and animals alike the opportunity to share unforgettable moments of escape in the great outdoors. What if this inclusive offer was the ideal solution to never leave your dog behind again, and above all, so that the road to vacation is no longer one of abandonment?
Please note that dog owners who wish to come accompanied by their animal must bring their own food and reserve this service in advance of their stay for optimal organization (under conditions and subject to availability). The price is 30 euros per dog per night.
