Europe is the original chalet continent and, try as they might, nowhere else on the planet has outdone it. France takes top spot as the biggest chalet nation, with properties of all shapes and sizes, often perched right on the piste-side. Meanwhile, with the levels of luxury going on in Switzerland, the chalets there are where we’d see out our days (if given half the choice...). Austria rounds off the lot by offering some of the most affordable lodgings, balancing out its rip-roaring après ski.
Though resorts get more and more modern by the day, luckily the catered package of breakfast, afternoon tea and supper with wine isn’t going anywhere in a hurry.
But versatility has never troubled the chalet, and a number can be booked on a self-catered basis, if the fine fare of Europe’s restaurants beckons.
With everything from all-out opulence (think private cinemas and wine cellars) to quiet luxury (a personal hot tub or private sauna), Europe’s 4 and 5* chalets, like its resorts, defy categorisation. Find something that fits your tastes and budget, and there’s no better way to ski.
Cosseted by your own private staff, let your aches melt away in private wellness facilities, before having meals put before you in warm, well-designed interiors. Literally everything is taken care of.
Putting nothing between you and the mountains, ski-in, ski-out convenience was the only thing that could’ve made the European chalets better. The famed French purpose-built resorts have scores of chalets dotted right next to the ski area, with options at the foot of the nursery slope, next to the ski school meeting point and halfway down the piste. Let our ski specialists know what you’re after, and we’ll help find a property that perfectly suits.
Independently run chalets are dotted all over Europe, run by groups of friends or families with huge passion for their ski resorts. Sometimes chalets come as a one-off, while others are part of a group in one resort or various resorts. You’ll find chalets dedicated to foodies, chalets focussed on families, cheap and cheerful lodgings and others all about luxury.
Generally these chalets don’t come in a package with flights and transfers – instead they’re booked as accommodation-only, leaving the travel plans down to you. The freedom to choose the airports, airline, flight times – or train / ferry times – that work best for you can be a big bonus, but if you’d rather someone else sorted out the journey, we’ll happily arrange it for you.
But that’s not to say you’ll have to sort out meals too. Most indie chalets come with the classic chalet catering: six days of breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner with wine, and a chalet hosts day off where you can explore the local restaurants. There tends to be more flexibility with meal times and menus with the smaller companies, and some will even send you off with a packed lunch or snacks for the slopes as well.
This mid-priced option is 8 minutes walk to the lift or 25 metres to the bus stop. Shared amenities include an outdoor pool, Finnish and steam saunas. The alpine-contemporary wood and stone interior features a cosy fireplace.
Chalet Monte Vera offers easy ski access via a short walk to Nasserein lift. The catered chalet is top-notch with elegant, spacious rooms featuring balconies. Enjoy the sumptuous spa with a sanarium and infra-red sauna.
Nestled in scenic woods, these cosy log cabins are part of Äkäs Hotel, offering free access to the pool, sauna, nightclub and more. Cross-country ski trails start at your doorstep, with a ski bus to the downhill area.
Embrace ski-in ski-out at this centrally located catered chalet near the 'Telecentre' lift. With Scandinavian charm and contemporary flair, bedrooms feature balconies. Enjoy an infra-red sauna, table tennis and outdoor hot tub.
Experience doorstep skiing in Avoriaz at this charming catered chalet adorned with Alpine antiques. Relax by the open fireplace or in the sauna after your mountain adventures.
On Plagne 1800's edge, close to all the action, this self-catered chalet mixes tradition with modern vibes—spacious family dining, sauna, covered hot tub and play area for the kids. Plus, those jaw-dropping Mont Blanc views.
Indulge in ski-in/ski-out luxury in this stylish chalet. With five chic suites, private spa, gym and home cinema, it offers stunning views and ultimate comfort right on the slopes.
Indulge in Nendaz's charm at this modern, airy chic chalet. With a cinema room and access to an indoor pool with a fireplace, it's a haven of luxury. Relax on the sun terrace while your personal chef prepares dinner.
Experience sophisticated alpine style in this modern mountain retreat in Verbier, with an elevated position offering breathtaking views. Soak in the incredible indoor swimming pool and unwind in the outdoor hot tub.
Indulge in luxury at Zermatt’s premier chalet with uninterrupted Matterhorn views. Enjoy the sauna, Jacuzzi and gym. A personal chef caters to your culinary desires and a walk-in wine cellar completes the experience.
Accommodation | Resort | Price (per person) |
---|---|---|
Chalet Marie | Avoriaz | £ 1144 |
Chalet L'Ancolie | Meribel & Mottaret | £ 1149 |
Chalet Le Cedre Blanc | Meribel & Mottaret | £ 1149 |
Chalet Arktic | Tignes | £ 1447 |
Chalet Cairn | Tignes | £ 1361 |
Chalet La Rocheure | Val d'Isere | £ 1204 |
Chalet Mathilde | Val Thorens | £ 1144 |
Chalet Noella | Val Thorens | £ 1319 |
Chalet Chloe | Val Thorens | £ 1144 |
Chalet Secret de Neige | Alpe d'Huez | £ 1229 |