"Les Karellis", or the dream of co-ordinated development

In 1970, Pierre Lainé set up a small ski resort in the Maurienne valley. In many ways, it is very different from other resorts. Founded within the framework of 'social tourism', it was an experiment which aimed to show that it was possible to create a resort providing essentially the same services as the larger resorts but at lower prices. It was also necessary to show that the employees could be properly housed and could work without overtime or layoffs. In order to achieve these aims, an agreement was signed between the village, the resort agent, the ski school, the ski-lifts and all the other partners. Financing the construction of the resort demanded great skill. The continuing existence of the resort implies an excellent management system. The exceptional occupancy rate of the resort is undeniable proof of the success of this operation.