If you want a bit of everything on your ski holiday then Chalet Marmotte will suit you down to the ground. Firstly, you get the run of a chic chalet with exceptional facilities and a wonderful personal service. Secondly, you have the largest ski area in Europe right on your doorstep so you can ski in and ski out with ease. Finally, the select restaurants of Courchevel, the Alps' most glamorous resort, are only a few minutes away. Although your energy levels won't be tested inside the chalet, you'll need to rev up a little in order to sample everything on offer outside.
Located in the secluded hamlet of Belvédère, five minutes drive from Courchevel 1650 and 10 minutes from 1850, the chalet has a splendid view of the Tarentaise Mountains and the Vanoise National Park. Like the neighbouring Chalet Chamois, which also belongs to Marmotte’s owners and is ideal for larger groups, the interior of this Swiss-style chalet is classically elegant. Local granite, aged timbers, luxurious furnishings and carefully considered details create a undeniably comfortable setting, while the chalet’s modest size guarantees an intimate atmosphere.
The four double bedrooms are warm and inviting, with views of the piste and the surrounding mountains. Egyptian cotton sheets, snug bathrobes and smart en suite bathrooms add to the air of tranquility. The mezzanine level has a low sloping ceiling under the eaves and two additional beds, which are ideal for children. Marmotte is perfect for families and the chalet staff can organise ski school and baby-sitters so that the parents can make the most of their holiday too.
Guests are welcomed with champagne and canapés and the staff produce fresh bread and croissants each morning, as well as afternoon tea. Evening meals are not included in the cost of the chalet but it's definitely worth the extra expense to have Chalet Marmotte’s expert chef prepare delicious French food served with fine wine from the cellar. The personalised service at the chalet allows you to request a whole range of added extras, including helicopter transfers and relaxing beauty treatments in the chalet’s sauna and spa room.
Of course there’s also the vast Trois Vallées ski area to enjoy. Chalet Marmotte uses their detailed knowledge of the mountains to recommend hand-picked guides. They are invaluable if you want to fully experience the 400 miles of ski runs. Courchevel also has a dazzling array of alternative Alpine sports including white-knuckle rides on the bobsleigh run in nearby La Plagne and ice-diving in the lake in Tignes. You'll no doubt be grateful for the peace and comfort of Chalet Marmotte at the end of an action-packed day.
This chalet in Courchevel sleeping ten guests was reviewed by Jim Whyte
