Daily Mail - Spa Resort Les Granges d'en Haut Chamonix
Date of publication: 03 March 2008
Luxury for money - Good
Beautiful chalets which sleep eight and marry old-style alpine cosiness – burning log fires, wood paneling and fur throws – with modern chic design. All have access to the spa, which includes a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, treatment rooms and gym. It may seem pricey, but you get a lot for it: the package includes chalet staff (hostess, chef, chauffeur), breakfast, tea and dinner, an open bar, transfers to and from Geneva airport, luxury bathroom products and some massages. It’s five-star hotel standard, but less expensive.
The wow factor - Excellent
A concierge service means that ski passes, skis and boots will be delivered to your door on arrival so you can hit the slopes when you want. And they will try to find anything you ask for, whether it’s a Hummer with Cristal on ice, a rare vintage wine or a designer dress. The chalets are ten minutes outside Chamonix, which would be a pain if it wasn’t for your personal driver who is on 24-hour call to take you skiing, shopping and partying.
Slim or sin? - Sin
The concierge will discuss your food preferences with you before you arrive – a personal chef will then prepare your meals. There is a selection of fine wines on hand and an open bar.
Pamper rating - Excellent
We loved the feeling of being in a private chalet but without having to lift a finger. Ski holidays are usually physically exhausting due to all that activity on the slopes. But this is no-pain skiing at its best.
And for the other half? - Good
The wide range of massages are unisex, but for the metrosexual there is also a special facial and a back, arm and chest wax.
Staff attentiveness - Excellent
The concierge service is faultless. The team is helpful, innovative and positive even when asked to carry out difficult requests. They will organise anything from heli-skiing to dog-sledging. The Bond-style skidoo ride up the mountain, dinner and ski down is an absolute must.
Range of treatments - Good
The signature Aromasoul Massage uses methods from around the world (from €210), while body scrubs, a hammam, mud treatments, manicures and pedicures are also on offer. For an extra treat, try the Dr Hauschka facial (€105) or couples yoga, which gets your tired ski muscles really stretched out.