Summer might just be around the corner but for many, the festive season signals the beginning of another snow season. Europe, North America and Canada are home to some of the most stunning ski slopes and equally forthy white stuff that skiers and boarders seek out from all over the world.
If you plan on taking a mini-snow break why not make it one to remember and book a room in one of these new ski chalets opening for this coming season. Whether you want to revel in the grandeur of Caldera House, Jackson Hole, or experience slope bars and French bubbly at Chamonix’s exquisite La Folie Douce, there’s something for every traveller this winter.
Experimental Chalet, Verbier, Switzerland
Designed by Milanese architect Fabrizio Casiraghi, the newly-opened Experimental Chalet is inspired by mid-century resorts, combining timbre tones with pink and green colours. The small boutique hotel might only have 39 rooms but when they include features such as your very own terrace, stylish appliances, personal jacuzzi and retro styling, it’s clear your every need is being taken care of. The bistro is headed by revered Parisian chef Gregory Marchand while the impressive cocktail bar hosts the iconic Farm Parties that occur at all of the 20 properties owned by the Experimental group.
Club Med Panorama, Les Arcs, France
Club Med is known for providing premium all-exclusive holiday experiences and its latest offering in the snowfields of Les Arcs is no exception. This 5-star resort is set in the heart of the Paradiski ski area with panoramic views of the slopes and surrounding forest areas. Each room is designed by famed creative Didier Rey, with the hotel including two gourmet restaurants, scenic outdoor terraces and a wellness centre with an inside/outside pool, sauna and hot tub. As is the case with Club Med vacations, your ski pass, food and booze are included, meaning you can indulge to your heart’s content.
The Josie, British Colombia, Canada
Billed as the first ski-in/ski-out boutique hotel in Canada in over 10 years, The Josie reflects modern-day style with its industrial design and hipster-influenced amenities. The bar provides various craft beers on tap along with a solid selection of wines. Bikes can be hired to trek the mountains (no fixies though) while the hotel’s interior can be best described as modern chic. The snow slopes are well worth your time too, thanks to the depth of powder, challenging courses and spectacular views of the Canadian Rockies.
Le Massif Hotel, Courmayeur, Italy
For me, Italy is all about pizza, pasta and how many combinations of those carbs I can smash down in one day, but if you’re there over the winter you may as well do that at the majestic Le Massif Hotel. Close to the famous Mount Blanc and home to Italy’s upper-class holidaymakers, this chalet is looking to raise the stakes when it comes to luxury hotels. Italian design meets alpine-style furnishings in a variety of compact rooms with panoramic views. Along with the outside activities, Le Massif brings the goods in the culinary department, with a slope-side steakhouse and a gastronomic smorgasbord of Italian and French cuisines at the exclusive Valle d’Aosta.
Caldera House, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Part of the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the well known Teton Village, Caldera House is not only in a prime location close to the snow but offers a warm and friendly place to kick back after a day shredding hard. There’s an abundance of timber and oak furnishing to give you that log cabin vibe but with the addition of upmarket suites, each with a fully equipped chef’s kitchen, glorious mountain views and roaring fireplaces. Become a private member and you’ll also have access to a heated outdoor infinity plunge pool, sauna and spa facilities.
RELATED: Where to find a European apres-ski scene in North America
La Folie Douce, Chamonix, France
Chamonix is the famous resort area at the base of Mount Blanc that borders France, Switzerland and Italy. There are dozens of places to stay here but the newly built La Folie Douce takes the crown for opulence. Known for their unique mountain après ski bars, the company’s first attempt at the ski hotel game is on point. There are 248 rooms, ranging from budget dorms to luxury suites with grey and cream decor and timber fittings. The legendary La Folie Douce après-ski parties occur nightly and feature top musical talent and prolific DJs. This chalet is certainly for those who like to party hard.
RELATED: Where to find a Euro apres-ski scene in North America
