Easy Living Article: Forget lengthy research on where to ski and stay this season
Date of publication: 01 January 2008
Writer: Sophie Robinson
Best in SNOW - Forget lengthy research on where to ski and stay this season -first prize goes to Chalets Philippe in Chamonix, France...
BY SOPHIE ROBINSON
Snuggled away in the Chamonix Valley lies the tiny but stunning snow-topped hamlet of Chalets Philippe, where the Easy Living fashion team stayed while shooting December's Warm On The Inside story. The hamlet is made up of seven chalets, each uniquely decorated by Philippe Courtines, the famously charming theatre impresario owner, who has spent the last 20 years refining his creation. The properties are open all year round for skiing or walking holidays and can be booked individually or together for exclusive use through Pollen Brooks Leisure.
SLEEP - From the snug two person Chalet Les Clarines to the more decadent five-bedroom Chalet Les Grandes Jorasses, glamorous living and contemporary luxury is not in short supply. Inside the chalets, the decor is crafted from antique wood, lending a truly rustic and authentic Alpine feel to the place. We loved the enchanting feeling of bedding down in the sleigh bed, with the wood burner alight, in Chalet Les Trolles. In addition, there are mod cons aplenty, with full entertainment systems, HD TVs with satellite and Wi-Fi internet access. Attention to detail is second to none, with daily housekeeping, a pillow menu, fresh flowers and fruit and gorgeous Hermes products in the bathrooms.
CHILL - With so many onsite excitements, it is easy to get side-tracked from skiing. After a hard day's work off-piste, soothe exhausted limbs in the resident hammam or open air Jacuzzi with unrivalled views of the Alps, or kick back in one of the huge leather seats in the state-of-the-art cinema den.
EAT AND DRINK - For those of you keen on self-catering, most chalets have their own kitchens, but we'd highly recommend sampling the culinary delights of the resident chefs. Before arriving, you can create bespoke menus with fare ranging from the humble shepherd's pie to an incredible five-course feast. Fresh produce is key and the 17th-century dining room is a suitably grand setting for your holiday banquets. What's more, you can choose your breakfasts and teatime treats, and don't forget to make time for the pre-dinner canapés and champagne.
PERFECT FOR... a romantic wintery gateway in a totally unique and luxurious setting. The hamlet of Chalets Philippe would also serve as a great destination for a gang of four or five families who want to take over the entire resort, as it sleeps up to 26 people.
DON'T LEAVE WITHOUT... making full use of the concierge services provided by the tour operator-your wish is their command. Pollen Brooks Leisure will happily chauffeur you around, organise activities from dog-sledding to heli-skiing, and even arrange a romantic picnic for two in a remote location with a personal butler
CONTACT For more information, contact Pollen Brooks Leisure. Call 01344 849135; pollenbrooks.com