Chalet Charr

Not many people have heard of St Luc, and that’s all wrong. Yet it is also a good thing, for this little-known Swiss resort, across the valley from the better-known Grimentz in the Val d’Anniviers, has immense charm and excellent skiing, both of which would be compromised if the crowds descended.

Chalet Charr itself is a beautifully secluded, architect-designed contemporary chalet hidden away high on the mountainside in its own glade of pines. It is just minutes from lovely St Luc, with its charming shops and restaurants and its endless, pretty ski slopes. A charming spot.

The chalet is a complete new-build which has been sympathetically designed to blend in with its forest position. It is constructed primarily from granite and the rich honey-toned local meleze wood, with a timber shingle roof, but it combines these traditional materials with stylish, contemporary stainless steel balconies and giant windows. There is a central oak and granite staircase that links the interior, which stretches over three floors.

The spacious living-dining area in this luxury ski chalet has a stone fireplace and full height picture windows that provide spectacular views of the valley and mountains and also allow light to flood in. The furnishings are elegant and tasteful, mixing bespoke furniture with Persian rugs, antiques, art and photography. Sliding glass doors give access onto the south-facing balconies.

The bedrooms are well appointed, with large windows or glass doors to make the most of the scenic woodland setting and all the natural light. The ones at the front have the best views, out across the valley. Each room has its own bathroom, although one is not en suite and has its own private bathroom adjacent to the bedroom. Complimentary toiletries are all free from chemicals and made with essential oils. Bathrobes and slippers are provided.

The food in this fully catered chalet is prepared by the owners and is delicious but not fancy restaurant-standard. The style is generous portions of good, honest, local food well presented in an informal dining atmosphere. The menus, based around fresh local produce, are devised in conjunction with guests before arrival, to ensure all tastes are catered for. Pre dinner canapés are served with a different, superb local wine each evening, and Champagne on the first night. Dinner is three courses plus a board of local cheeses accompanied by a selection of house wines provided by the Wine Society. There is also an extensive à la carte menu of wines for guests to upgrade to.

Chalet Charr has a sauna with wet room. This luxury ski chalet also has an arrangement with the nearby beautiful Hotel Bella Tola in St Luc for guests to use the hotel’s spa facilities at certain times during the day at reduced rates. These include hammams, saunas, heated pool, cold plunge pool and treatment rooms.

The chalet has stone stairs, high balconies and quality furnishings, so is not really suitable for young children. Because of this it only accepts babies and children over ten years. Children over ten are charged the adult price. There are plenty of games suitable for older children and the separate leisure room has a TV, meaning they can escape to watch movies or play games away from the adults.

The get-away-from-it-all location, as well as the ‘secret’ skiing in little-known St Luc.

When the snow conditions aren’t right, not being able to make the adventurous off piste ski-in ski-out to and from the chalet.