Le Chalet St Martin

Prayers Answered !

Saint Martin de Belleville manages to pull something off that many old mountain villages seek and yet few achieve. It has retained the ambiance and the sheer charisma of an authentic alpine hamlet. Although accessible to an area that became one of the early super-ski networks, it resisted for many years the development that would have stolen its heart. By the time that it linked into the Trois Vallées, conservation was king. So, among its ancient cobbled streets and pretty meadows there nestle discretely inviting establishments for wining and dining and beautiful accommodation. Le Chalet is one such. “Le Chalet” might sound a tad pretentious – it is not the only Chalet. But when you have experienced its understated luxury, a pretentions free zone, you will forgive it that.

Le Chalet sits prettily in the heart of the village, 200m from the efficient lift that whisks skiers up into the vast Trois Vallées ski area (Le Chalet provides a driver service – the invigorating morning walk to the station is not obligatory). From its windows and balconies, the views are open and magnificently mountainous, especially from the delicious outdoor hot tub on the terrace. With 350sqm of thoughtfully laid out space, its ten guests can enjoy privacy as well as sociability. The invitingly comfortable living room is supplemented by a cinema room, another TV room and a tranquil reading corner. The five bedrooms can all be adapted to be generous doubles or twin all with en-suites, one with a bath and the others with showers.

Interiors are a compelling blend of old and new. Le chalet does traditional alpine with lots of chunky weathered timber and contemporary colours that successfully avoid cutesiness. Its stylishly tousled rusticity belies some serious luxury underneath. Exquisite craftsmanship and designer touches – clever lighting, subtle artwork, a contemporary wood-burning fireplace – add just enough elegance to whisper finesse without shouting opulence. Even the spa and the open kitchen carry it off. Rough-hewn timber side by side with the properly indulgent relaxation facilities of the spa and the state-of-the-art equipment of the professional kitchen are harmonious like a work of art. An unpretentious work of art, of course.

Le Chalet, properly French, takes pride in the culinary experience it offers its guests. From the living room you can observe the confident chef at work and the usual chalet party fayre of breakfast, afternoon tea and cake and fine dining aims for excellence. The staff day off provides an opportunity to explore the varied gastronomy of this privileged enclave, from super-refined to heartily regional, guided by the attentive and knowledgeable chalet manager.  

Saint Martin de Belleville is a privileged destination for skiers with its access to the Trois Vallées. However, some of the best skiing of that massive area, from beginners to powder junkies, is to be found right here, in and around Saint Martin. Which makes it even more impressive that it is still a hamlet with a heart. Old-style community spirit is alive and well here. And Le Chalet de Saint Martin de Belleville is a radiant reflection of that spirit.