Our People
Founder
Jerry
Jerry & his partner Jan discovered La Ferme des Hirondelles in a dilapidated state back in 1992. Extensive initial renovation and on going improvements over the last 20 years have, lovingly, restored the property into what you see today. Jerry splits his time between Barnes and The Alps, and is actively involved in both the Active and Business Retreats businesses that call Les Hirondelles their home. His favourite things are good people, camaraderie, Savoie wines & cheese, and planning the next stage of the chalet’s story.
Our onsite team
Janelle
Antipodean born, Janelle has lived in France for almost 15 years. After seasons running luxury chalets in Meribel and Chamonix followed by 2 years in Paris managing a private country estate, Janelle and her husband set up their own successful chalet holiday business in La Clusaz having fallen in love with the skiing, the village life and the proximity to Annecy and Geneva.
Janelle joined the team at Aravis two and a half years ago as a consultant and is now responsible for all logistics. From airport transfers to booking an in-house massage treatment; Janelle is on hand to ensure your stay with us is a stress free experience that starts well before you arrive.
Contact Janelle – Janelle@aravis-retreats.co.uk
Jen
Born & bred in Buck’s, Jenny is our House manager. Jenny first worked for us as a chalet girl back in 2001 and having been back and fourth every year since, decided Aravis was the place for her.
With a hospitality background Jenny is a real people pleaser, nothing is too much trouble. She is in charge of making Aravis welcoming, homely and fun, with her mantra of: ‘the answer is yes, what is the question?’
Tommy
Tommy found his passion for cooking in Prague in 2001 whilst touring across Europe in ‘Albert’, a 1979 Volkswagen Camper van with his best friend and partner in crime Jamima. They were forced to end their trip in Prague after spending their entire budget on beer so decided to find work rather than return to the UK. Tommy worked in a restaurant learning the tricks of his new trade and has never looked back.
In the mountains, Tommy takes full advantage of the local markets and the fresh produce the area offers which helps to create dishes that really wow our guests. Whether its cooking a home made ale pie or a wild mushroom risotto, Tommy hopes that people get as much out of his food as he puts in. ‘Simple, fresh food done right is always the best’
Our Alpine Network
Francois Lecomte
Originally from Annecy, Francois now splits his year in half with winter seasons as a top ski instructor and summers teaching golf throughout France. Once you’ve had a lesson with Francois you won’t want to be taught by anyone else, his calm manner and expertise ranging from beginners to pros. Speak to a member of the onsite team if you’d like your team to be lead by the best.
Albert
A trip to Aravis is not complete without a trip to Alberts and the infamous tartiflette challenge. To say anymore would ruin the experience – speak to the onsite team to arrange an evening you will never forget!
Yvan
I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand. Confucious, Chinese Philosopher
Our enviable position in the French Alps provides a unique setting to get your team out and about – practising the practical skills they need in business. Yvan has worked with the Aravis team for 20 years and is an Outdoor/Experiential Learning Facilitator. From orienteering to raft building and tree climbing, Yvan brings theories to life and challenges teams to work together to set and achieve personal and business goals.
Massage team
Our specially converted shepherd’s huts have been transformed into a massage room and sauna – a perfect setting to reflect and unwind.
After owning a successful aromatherapy and beauty clinic in Gloucestershire for over 20 years, Christine and her partner moved to France for a gentler pace of life. She spends the winter season in the Alps and the summer in Burgundy. Christine specializes in holistic treatments to sooth or tone, using her own blends of essential oils.