Description

Imagine you are lost in a snowstorm on an icy mountain path. The flurry clears for a moment, and the glowing windows of a rugged stone house light up the darkness. Step into the warmth and feel the intoxication of Chalet Himalaya in all its opulence.

Originally a 17th century monastery, this luxury ski chalet has kept some wonderful original features, such as craggy rock walls, and a huge stone fireplace. Set deep into the stone walls are timeworn window seats where monks would have sat to read. But this is no museum piece. Chalet Himalaya may be a historic character, but it has been equipped with every modern comfort.

There are decadent touches, such as the cinema screen that appears at the touch of a button, and the enchanting pool connecting the indoors with the outdoors. Each bedroom at Chalet Himalaya is a full size suite, draped in rich fabrics and fur rugs, with its own enormous and unique spa bathing area.

Perched at the side of the piste, looking down past a tumble of wooden barns to Val d’Isère, this luxury ski chalet offers fabulous ski-in/ski-out access onto a green piste, so that everyone can be out enjoying the snow in no time. From breakfast in bed, to the gourmet cuisine served in the evenings, guests are cosseted and pampered by Chalet Himalaya’s team of attentive staff.

A chauffeured vehicle is on hand to take you around resort and anything from in-house spa treatments and massages to babysitting or professional hairstyling is available. Chalet Himalaya has been transformed from a spiritual retreat to a temple of sensuality. There is a sauna, massage room and indoor/outdoor pool, and the bathrooms are stocked with luxury toiletries.

When dinner is over, select a sweet-smelling Montecristo from the cool haven of the cigar room, and push open the ancient wooden door of the wine store to choose a vintage Port. Who knew that such an evocative ski chalet existed?