VALENTIN MASEGOSA

Bikes & hardware Department

Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, and how did you end up in Verbier?

My name is Valentin, and I’m from the south of France, a beautiful city called Sète, right next to the Mediterranean Sea. I arrived in Verbier 13 years ago, in 2011. Originally, I traveled for a year in New Zealand, and after my trip, I did a winter season in the North Island. Is right there where I met Joe, who encouraged me to come to Verbier to work with him and Sam at a shop called All Mountain Rentals. So I did! Sam, Joe, Tom, and I worked together there, and about 8 years ago, we joined Mountain Air to take over the rentals department.

How long have you been working at Mountain Air, and what do you like most about it?

I’ve been working in Verbier with Mountain Air since 2012, mostly during the winter seasons. Two years ago, I decided to make the move and live here year-round. What I love most about working here is the location and the view, especially in the summer. It’s always busy, and the job is very dynamic—during summer, we’re already preparing for winter, and vice versa. We’re constantly coming up with ideas to improve the shop. Many customers return year after year, which creates a really nice atmosphere. And of course, we love the coffee here! There are always events and cool things happening at the shop, which keeps things exciting.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I love spending time with friends, enjoying life over a glass of wine, and heading to the mountains for some beautiful views. For seven years, I worked at a campsite by a river, surrounded by nature, which inspired me to buy a big camper van. I used to spend half the year traveling and living in it, exploring incredible places like Portugal, Scotland, Sardinia, England, and so many more.

Do you have any specific goals or missions for the upcoming winter?

I’m hoping to carve out some time for myself this winter. Working in Verbier, especially at Mountain Air, can be quite intense, so finding that balance is important for me.

What’s the one piece of advice you give to every customer before they head out on an adventure?

Make sure you have the right gear for your adventure! Verbier can be pretty xtreme, so it’s crucial to have the proper safety equipment for whatever you’re planning to do. Better safe than sorry!

If you had to pick one coworker to be your adventure buddy for a month, who would it be and why?

I’d actually pick Josh, who used to work at Mountain Air but now runs his own company, Verbier Green. We lived together for three years, and he’s an awesome travel mate. He’s super chill, always in a good mood, and up for any adventure!

Johana - The Mountain Air Café Chef

Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, and how did you end up in Verbier?

My name is Johana Palm, and I’m from Costa Rica. I’ve been living in Switzerland for 25 years, and the last 12 in Verbier with my husband Jopnas and our two wonderful kids. Why Verbier? Because I met Jonas here a long time ago—it was our common ground, and we decided to settle down in this small village with its great international community. Now, nothing could make me leave!

When did you take over Mountain Air Café in Verbier, and why?

I took over Mountain Air Café in November 2023. I’ve always liked this place since it was created—great location, amazing for families, and open all year round, which is quite rare in Verbier. That was really important to me, having a place that locals can visit throughout the year. I always wanted to run a restaurant close to the center of the village, with good vibes, and that’s why I decided to join this place.

How did your first year go here? Did you find it challenging?

Yes, it’s been a great experience, but also a lot of work and challenges. I was lucky to have a fantastic team working with me, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.

What inspired your menu at the café?

My menu is inspired by the flavors of my childhood, with a touch of Asian influence. I like food that’s full of flavor and I really wanted to offer something different in Verbier. We have amazing and unique salads that you won’t find elsewhere in town, along with the Bao Buns. The kids’ menu was also a big priority for me—it was actually created with input from my own children, so it’s been tailored to what they love.

What’s your all-time favorite food memory from childhood?

My mom’s tallarines, which is kind of like ramen, but just... mmmmmm. Every time I think about it, my mouth waters!

In your opinion, who on your team would win in a survival challenge on a deserted island and why?

Ania, for sure! Her positive attitude is unbeatable—she's always happy, no matter the situation. I think she'd find a way to make the best of anything, even on a deserted island!