Becoming a Chalet Girl During a Gap Year

I've heard about chalet girl jobs and am curious if they're a good gap year option. What kind of work does it involve, and how do you apply for these types of positions?

Working as a chalet girl (or boy) can certainly be an interesting and unique way to spend a gap year, especially if you enjoy skiing or boarding and are interested in hospitality. This role primarily involves managing accommodations in a ski resort, which could include tasks like cooking, cleaning, and ensuring guests are comfortable and well looked after.

In terms of application, these jobs are typically seasonal (winter season in particular), and resorts or companies start hiring months before the season begins. You can look for job postings on ski resort websites or through agencies that specialize in such placements. When you apply, you'll generally need to submit a CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and explaining why you're interested in the role.

Notably, many chalet jobs require applicants to be at least 18 years old, and some even require them to be at least 21, due to laws about serving alcohol. Experience in cooking or customer service can also be beneficial. In terms of qualifications, a recognized cookery course certificate can boost your application, and a driving license is often required too. These positions may also require you to work weekends and holidays, which are typically busy times for ski resorts.

Also, keep in mind that although these roles come with certain privileges like lift passes and board, they can also be a lot of work with long hours, so it's important to be ready for this commitment.

In short, if you're interested in spending a year in the mountains, enhancing your hospitality skills, and meeting a wide range of people, it might be a good fit for you. Just make sure to thoroughly research the specific roles and companies before applying to ensure that the job aligns with your expectations.