For those who are used to all-inclusive, the freedom of self-catering can be a treat in itself – particularly when you have a luxury apartment to come back to after a day on the slopes. Without being tied to set meal times, you can do as you like. Dine at gourmet restaurants or bring home local delicacies for an après-ski picnic on your private balcony. With access to fabulous wellness facilities and more personal space than you’d have in a hotel, these properties are well worth considering.
Etoile Filante, Val d’Isère
Split over two floors, the palatial Etoile Filante duplex has been decorated under the discerning eye of interior designer Nicky Dobree, a specialist in opulent ski properties. Although the building was finished in 2016, it feels like a traditional chalet: think supremely soft fur throws, plush chaise longues and a roaring log fire.
Each of the four bedrooms has its own design theme and the master bedroom opens onto a private balcony. The living space also has a large balcony, ideal for watching the sun go down over the soaring peaks. Make the most of your self-catering status with an al-fresco dinner of saucisson sec, la ferme d’Adroit cheese and vintage wine sourced from local delicatessen La Fermette de Claudine.
Hotel Apartment Le Cristal de Jade, Chamonix
Offering the perfect balance between self-catering independence and superb hotel service, the five-star Hotel Apartment Le Cristal de Jade has 51 boutique apartments spread across its three chalet buildings. Each apartment has its own private balcony or terrace and is decorated in carefully chosen materials such as Chamonix granite and aged wood.
Just a short stroll away is the resort’s wellness centre, complete with infinity pool, sauna, Turkish-style hammam and a full menu of spa treatments. If you don’t want to go far for après-ski, there’s a restaurant and bar with a fireplace and expert mixologists adept at preparing bespoke cocktails.
Tschoder, St Anton
With its prime location by the Nasserein lift, Tschoder is the definition of a ski-in, ski-out chalet. There’s a bar, spa, gym and cinema room, so aside from hitting the slopes and stocking up on Tyrolean charcuterie from Plangger Delikatessen, it’s unlikely you’ll need to leave.
Sumptuous sofas and armchairs surround the open fireplace, great for curling up with a good book or sharing stories about the day’s escapades. Alternatively, shed the salopettes and don your swimsuit to gather with friends in the outdoor hot tub. Located on the sunny terrace, it’s a fine spot to while away the last hours of daylight.
Six Senses Residences, Courchevel 1850
Managed by Scott Dunn, the Six Senses Residences has married the traditional atmosphere of a quaint Alpine village with the impeccable touches of a five-star resort. Designer furniture, fine porcelain tiles and rustic timber beams create a cosy atmosphere. The five-bedroom penthouse suites are the resort’s crowning glory, each benefiting from triple-aspect balconies with panoramic views, along with their own private wine cellars.
On-site facilities include the Six Senses Spa, which has its own juice bar and manicure-pedicure station. The resort also has a ski concierge to handle your equipment (and warm your boots) as well as an optional private chef service.
The Loft, Courchevel 1650
Blond wood furniture, huge windows and a grand double-height lounge lend this penthouse apartment a light-filled atmosphere. The wraparound balcony has views across the rooftops of Moriond’s old quarter, towards the Tarentaise Valley: take in the views with a glass of the excellent local wine in hand.
The open-plan living and dining area is a welcoming place to gather over a home-cooked meal, with plenty of space around the large wooden dining table and decadently comfortable sofas nearby to sink into after dinner. The Loft also has an indoor hot tub for soaking muscles, a relaxing way to end a day of skiing your way through Les Trois Vallées.
Chalet Skadi, Val d’Isère
The Chalet Skadi by Village Montana exudes Alpine charm. The rooms all have their own balconies, and the C1 apartments also have an open fireplace. The centre of Val d’Isère is just a short stroll away, and raclette and fondue sets are available at reception for those who want to try their hand at making these simple yet delicious local specialities.
Guests have access to the stunning Les Bains du Montana spa, which has a swimming pool, hammam, sauna and full service spa with Cinq Mondes treatments. The hotel offers additional little touches that make your experience truly extraordinary, such as delivering an expertly cooked breakfast to your room and preparing your ski equipment before you head out.
Craig Burton is Managing Director of Ski Solutions. Ski Solutions is the UK’s original ski travel agent with over 30 years’ experience in delivering high-end ski holidays to Europe and North America.
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