Ganga

Grown-Up Fun

For many years Tignes was never associated with luxury but that has changed, decisively. Tignes, in its wide sunny basin above the treeline, was snow sure and surrounded by magnificence. But it was populated by strident apartment blocks into which tiny, insipid apartments were squeezed. Great for making skiing accessible to families on a budget. Fabulous for many of us when we were snow crazy students living on adrenaline. Less attractive to discerning guests seeking more from a ski holiday. However, a fresh breeze of sparkling alpine air has blown over this high-altitude community - the luxury ski holiday has arrived.

Chalet Ganga is impeccably managed by a small company set up by passionate skiers. Their portfolio is bijoux so each of their chalets receives their loving care and attention. They employ consummate professionals to look after you, including your tastebuds. Ganga is a spacious, opulently renovated apartment right next to the piste. Its alpine chic design is shared by chalets across the alps, all delicious mellow timber and sumptuous neutrals. Here, in Tignes, with that dramatic high mountain scenery through the large windows, it has a special beauty. And at Chalet Ganga it does not stray to the bland. Imaginative shapes and creative quirks (the owner is an artist) liven up interiors that are reassuringly refined.

Chalet Ganga is the larger of two apartments in this south-facing building in Tignes le Lac. It is the larger of the two, accommodating up to sixteen guests in eight individually designed double bedrooms, all of which can be converted between twins and doubles and have en-suites and balconies that face the sunshine. It incorporates all the features that you have come to expect from a ski holiday this splendid. The bright and sociable living space on the top floor, compete with eye-catching fireplace, substantial dining table and drinks corner. A wellness centre with jacuzzi and sauna. Entertainment with the home cinema, billiards and table-tennis. Service too – breakfast and afternoon tea every day, six nights of fine dining in the week, the chauffeured 4x4 to get you around the resort, the open bar.  

But we know that it’s not all about the chalet, however perfectly it fits your needs. The location matters too. These high mountain resorts were known for excellent snow conditions and vast terrains connected by extensive lift systems, but not for luxury. Which meant visitors were deprived of many of those other delights of the ski holiday. Heart-warming mountain restaurants, non-skiing activities, even a little bit of soul. That has changed too. Tignes, where for much of its history the only lunchtime options were barn-like cafeterias on the mountain, is now firmly on the mountain gourmet map. The award of a Michelin star to the super high-end Ursus can only boost its reputation. Winter-hiking has expanded to suit all fitness levels, the range of adventures at the sports centre is inspiring and you can even go dog-sledding over the frozen lake. Of course, up here in this otherwise uninhabited wilderness you won’t find a quaint village full of rustic charm. But just take the Perce-Neige funicular up to the terrace of Le Panoramic and soak up the extraordinary panorama while sipping something luscious.

A great alternative to rustic charm.