The Graciosa Competition: Meet the Shortlist

Earlier this year, we invited you to enter for the chance to win a luxury ski holiday at the Graciosa, our brand-new complex of sixteen catered chalets above Plagne Centre. Whether it was for yourself or someone you love, we asked you to share why you (or they) deserve to rediscover the magic of the mountains.

The response was overwhelming. From tales of injury, illness, and family commitments to stories of resilience and hope, we were touched by the many reasons people had stepped away from the slopes, and by how deeply they miss them.

After reading every single entry, we’ve shortlisted a handful of the most moving nominations to share anonymously. These are the stories that stayed with us, and in September, we’ll whittle it down further and invite you to help us choose a winner by casting your vote.

Even if it’s my last trip, I want it to be joyful.
After years of pain and illness, I managed to ski in 2024. I just want one more joyful trip with my husband in the mountains.

He lives to ski. It’s how he resets.
My little brother had a bad fall last year. Skiing is his therapy, and this trip would mean the world to him.

I want them to see me ski
I lost confidence after having kids. I’m getting stronger now, and I want them to see me love the mountains again.

She’s given everything - now it’s her turn.
My twin sister hasn’t skied in over ten years. Life and work took over, but now she’s found love and needs a break for herself on the snow.

Back on her feet, and ready for blue skies
A decade after knee pain forced her to stop, one devoted husband dreams of seeing his wife dance in ski boots once more.

Reuniting on the slopes, 25 years later
A long-lost ski friend, still remembered for laughter-filled holidays - could this be their comeback?

Healing in the mountains, after healing the world
A cancer researcher, a devoted mum, a loyal friend - now it’s Claire’s turn for a little magic.

Father, fighter, skier again
After a stroke and a long recovery, one dad is ready to chase the powder - and reconnect with his son on the slopes.

From hospital bed to alpine dreams
A freak accident shattered a family’s ski plans. Now, one friend deserves a snowy escape more than ever.

Back to the mountains, after a lifetime away
He learned to ski at four. At 7, it all stopped. Now, after battling hardship, one father could find joy in the mountains again.

Remission, resilience, and the return to joy
Two decades after his last trip and now fighting cancer, one dad dares to dream of snow, hope, and shared memories with his sons.

A new love story, written in snow
She’s never skied. He’s been beneath the sea. Now, a Navy couple may finally find their moment — on top of a mountain.

The mountains are still calling
I skied once, over 20 years ago, but I’ve never forgotten the feeling. I’d love to go again - properly this time.

We’ll be selecting five or six final entries to go to a public vote this September. One deserving individual (and their chosen guest) will win a week in the Alps, complete with our signature thoughtful hospitality, ski-in/ski-out ease, and snowy memories to last a lifetime.

Watch this space - and thank you to everyone who entered and shared their story.