There are ski chalets and then there are luxury ski chalets, you can usually tell the difference the moment you walk through the door. I get a little bit giddy when I find something special, a fabulous residence that I can get excited about, a gem amongst gems. I see a lot of really lovely ones, but some just stand head and shoulders above the rest. Here are three of the world’s best chalets in Europe:
Chalet Jaguar — Megève
You could easily run out of superlatives when trying to describe Chalet Jaguar, but none of them can fully do it justice; this stunner has to be seen to be appreciated. Chalet Jaguar is one of Megève’s leading luxury properties, and one of the finest in the entire Alps. The moment you cross the threshold you it doesn’t fail to impress by its contemporary elegance, space and ambience—it just oozes class.
Chalet Jaguar sleeps 12 adults and two children, and is also a ski-in, ski-out property, a must for the serious skier. When staying here, it’s easy to want to remain nearby, since returning always provides you with a sense of calm and satisfaction. The ground floor contains a huge relaxation area with a play room for kids and a well-being area with sauna, Jacuzzi and beautiful swimming pool. The pool has a retractable floor and can be transformed in a club space or a cinema room, with state-of-the-art light and sound throughout. Rates currently begin at around USD $80,300 per week.
Chalet Karakoram — Courchevel 1850
Chalet Karakoram is another wonderful destination that simply can’t be over-hyped. The interiors are a beautiful blend of the old and new, decorated in whites, creams and natural stone. Its wooden beams, substantial timbers and cladding are traditional yet thoroughly modern, offering a light and spacious atmosphere. The timber and the fabrics echo the winter wonderland of the outside, it’s a stunning symbiosis of architecture and nature. Chalet Karakoram is also ski-in, ski-out and benefits from spectacular views over the valley and the Vanoise mountains.
Space is usually at a premium in the more popular ski resorts in the Alps, and this is especially so in Courchevel 1850; but Chalet Karakoram eschews such constraints and is very spacious. Organized over four levels, there is more than enough space for the 10 guests that this residence can accommodate. It features an indoor pool area with lounge (you’ll be spending plenty of time here) as well as a concierge, fireplace, balcony, chef (upon request), playroom and ski room among its many offerings. Rates currently begin at around USD $104,100 per week.
Chalet Zermatt Peak — Zermatt
Chalet Zermatt Peak is arguably the finest chalet to grace the glamorous resort of Zermatt. The residence stands proud in a prominent position on the mountain, providing panoramic views across Zermatt and the surrounding ranges. It also boasts uninterrupted views of the iconic Matterhorn through 14-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows. The interior of Chalet Zermatt Peak raises the bar for luxury accommodations. No expense has been spared to realize the vision of the designers. Such is its scale and lavishness, that I actually mistook the smallest guest bedroom for the master suite.
The furnishings have been custom made and sourced worldwide, many were airlifted due to their sheer scale and weight. Guests enter through a private lift and tunnel, and the chalet boasts a wellness area, study, and gym with all the latest fitness gear. The custom-made Jacuzzi is the center piece of the residence, and it really is something special. In front of it lie glass doors which can be kept closed or opened, since the Jacuzzi runs from the inside out onto the terrace. An external kitchen on the terrace is also available for those who like to dine al fresco. Make no mistake, Zermatt Peak is a class act with a price tag to match. Rates currently start at around USD $111,600 per week.
