Skiers visiting the Alps by and large usually prefer the independence and freedom that a luxury ski chalet provides, however one mans meat is another mans poison, some prefer the hotel experience. For those that do prefer to stay in a hotel there are a wide range of options, from the cosy and intimate small boutique hotel to the grand and elegant five star luxury establishment. Here are five examples of stunning hotels to enjoy that have proved very popular with visitors to this beautiful part of the world.
Courchevel 1850 has earned a reputation for being the most affluent ski resort in the world, helped in no small measure by the influx of Russians and the wealth they bring to the resort when the world turns white. It’s a coincidence that the USSR experienced it’s remarkable growth into a super power from 1850 onwards but the resort isn’t so named because of that, it’s the elevation which ensures that this prosperous resort is snow sure, a further attraction for skiers of all nationalities. In a resort that boasts some of the worlds most luxurious chalets and hotels, the K2 holds it’s own and then some, it’s nothing short of spectacular. The K2 has everything going for it, style, sumptuous comfort, five star service all served up in a perfect location, what’s not to like? Well, maybe the price tag but then class like this, including a Michelin starred restaurant, doesn’t come cheap.
Hotel Le Chalet Zannier, Megeve
This stunning little boutique hotel is a world away from the bling of the K2 but just as impressive in it’s own way. Five minutes from the heart of Megeve, a resort founded and developed by the French aristocracy, Zannier is confident and assured in it’s place amongst the finest accommodation that Megeve can offer. Zannier has quite a large footprint that includes three separate Alpine style chalets offering the best of both worlds, the privacy of your own space with the first class service of a hotel that takes it’s customer care very seriously. Sophisticated and charming in equal measure, the Zannier is a beautiful haven that takes full advantage of the wondrous scenery that surrounds. With a price tag that won’t break the bank, this gorgeous establishment comes highly recommended.
Cervo Boutique Resort, Zermatt
You really can’t go wrong in Zermatt, this charming resort has it all, all year round skiing, nestled at the head of a valley and embraced with the sheltering arms of mountains on three sides, the location is impressive and very pretty, The Cervo is off to flyer from the get go. Set amongst snow dusted pines in a cosy spot on a sheltered piste the setting for this lovely hotel is picture postcard perfect. The interiors are warm and welcoming and the ambience is priceless. Contemporary decor with a nod towards traditional Alpine styling, the hotel exudes a calming and understated elegance. Of course, no five star alpine retreat would be complete without a wellness centre and the Cervo does not disappoint, with an array of activities including sauna, sanarium (steam room), outdoor whirlpool, massage showers, bucket shower, kneipp-basin, massage room, resting room and a sunny terrace with views of the Matterhorn.
There was much excitement and a buzz around Verbier when the W brand announced it was going to build one of it’s classy hotels in resort and it came to pass that the W opened it’s doors for business in time for the 2013/14 ski season. In that short time the W has established itself as a major player in a resort already packed with stunning accommodation. Situated next to the Medran lift station the hotel couldn’t be better placed, you can carve an elegant turn and swish to a halt in the hotel forecourt, plonk yourself down, order a cocktail and toast your good fortune that you are ensconced in a stunning establishment renown for cutting edge innovation and contemporary style. Aside from the unbeatable location and beautiful interiors the W also boasts a fine array of luxury features including the state-of-the-art fitness suite, the tranquil Away Spa and the stunning indoor/outdoor WET pool. The service here is pretty cool too, whatever you need, just ask. The renowned Whatever/Whenever service team are there to make it happen, with a smile on their faces. W, in this case stands for Wow!
Appearances can be very deceptive, don’t judge a book by its cover and all that. The Mooser is a case in point, looking very much like a large Tyrolean farmhouse, don’t let the exterior fool you, the inside is a very different animal. The interior is a million miles away from a typical Tyrolean residence. Once over the threshold you’ll be blown away by the contemporary stylishness and beautiful furnishings and finishes. The outside may be last century but the inside is bang up to date, the contrast is really quite pleasing, think young starlet wearing a very old coat. A bonus is ski-in ski-out option, the Mooser sits slap bang on the piste, click on your skis and you’re away. The fabulous restaurant and bar in the Mooser enjoys spectacular panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, a truly breathtaking venue for an unforgettable fine dining experience. If you are at all familiar with St Anton you will probably have stumbled upon the legendary apres ski at MooserWirt. When the lifts close and the skis are packed away for the evening the MooserWirt comes alive.
