Chalet 2

Self-catered chalets are not that common, or rather, lovely self-catered chalets aren’t. And Chalet 2 is lovely. In fact, it is one of two identical chalets that are right next door to one another, both of which are self-catered. It has all the facilities and features of a gorgeous catered chalet, without the price tag and with the added flexibility of you being able to go out for meals or cook for yourself as you wish. You can even hire in a chef for some nights if you wish, so it really is the best of both worlds.

Chalet 2 is deeply comfortable and totally serene, using a range of noble materials such as stone and aged wood that is reminiscent of ancient alpine chalets. It is a simple, uncluttered, and supremely tasteful luxury ski chalet, featuring vintage furniture and unique pieces of art. In fact, old very much meets new — the exposed concrete floor, for instance, highlighting the chunky solid wood Savoyard beams.

The main room has a cathedral ceiling and splendid panoramic views thanks to its immense glass facade. The inside blends itself into the outside. You will feel as if you are in the heart of the mountains here, while luxuriating in front of a roaring fire.

The owners are passionate about art and design, and some of their artist friends exhibit their work in the chalet. So if you particularly fancy one of the photos or paintings, you can purchase it and take home a bit of artistic inspiration from the chalet.

There are five en suite rooms in this St Martin de Belleville chalet, one being larger with a bath in the bathroom, the others having just showers. Each room comes with guest bathrobes and slippers.

Chalet 2 usually operates as a self-catered chalet, but there is a chef on standby in case guests prefer a catered option. In peak weeks this is less flexible and needs to be arranged in advance, but in less busy weeks he can be hired on an ad hoc basis. He travels a lot and can cook traditional dishes or exotic dishes, and everything is delicious and homemade.

Chalet 2 has its own private massage table plus six-man sauna. Therapists can be brought in to provide in-chalet treatments.

This luxury ski chalet is perfectly child-friendly. Four of the five bedrooms have their own TV. In the master suite there are international channels too. Traditional board games such as Monopoly are supplied, but no video games or Xbox.

The chalet is flexible, well-priced and gorgeous. Plus the location is lovely.

Its self-cateredness might not suit those who want lavish gourmet feasts laid on for them every night — although a chef can be brought in!