Elegant Address Ski In Verbier

I'm lucky enough to have these fantastic opportunities to travel and see some of the worlds most luxurious chalets.....

  Following on from my first experience of the Alps with Elegant Address Ski in September in the beautiful region of Zermatt, I was delighted to find out we would be travelling to Verbier for the opening of the ski season!

Not only were we lucky enough to see Verbier just before Christmas, but had the pleasure of staying at the lovely Chalet Marais Rouge. 

The chalet is in walking distance to the Medran lift and centre of Verbier, it's a wonderful stand-alone property that is perfect for those looking for a cosy and relaxing retreat to Switzerland. Offering an outdoor hot tub, sauna and cinema room, the chalet is also great for those who prefer not to ski and are looking for a winter escape. 

This chalet includes both a host and chef, who will take very good care of you during your stay. Your meal plans can be catered to your liking and needs, and the food certainly does not disappoint. There is nothing nicer than returning to the chalet after a long day skiing to be greeted by homemade cakes, fresh bread and an array of teas and coffee!

During our first full day in Verbier, we spent our time viewing chalets. A standout duplex apartment for us was Chalet Skye with its large reception room, eclectic furniture from all around the world and just a three minute walk to the Medran lift. It would be all too easy to enjoy a cool glass of champagne on the spacious south-facing balcony. 

If you are looking for absolutely breath-taking views, Apartment Alhena is the one for you – I could not quite believe my eyes! Just 100m from the Savoyleres lift, this wonderful apartment offers a mix of contemporary and alpine style, along with a driver service to take you around Verbier. 

When we returned to Marais Rouge, it was time for another incredible meal of Caprese salad, chicken stuffed with vegetables and stilton then an impressive crème brulee ice cream to finish. All this was served by our wonderful host and chef, along with a fabulous selection of hand-picked wines.

On Saturday it was time for some skiing! With fantastic conditions for a day on the slopes, we ventured 3,329 metres up to Mont Fort – one of Verbier’s most challenging and exhilarating runs. After taking lots of pictures that could not possibly portray the beauty we were seeing, off we went on our descent back down to the centre – obviously with an obligatory hot chocolate stop halfway!

Verbier is the perfect place for those looking to relax, treat themselves to some shopping, enjoy wonderful food and drinks in the local restaurants and bars…..oh and let’s not forget the absolutely amazing skiing! It was safe to say I did not want to say goodbye to Verbier, but will definitely looking forward to going back. 

Written by one of our luxury ski chalet consultants - Sophie Dobson

Top 6 activities for non-skiers in ski resorts

So you’ve booked your dream stay in the Alps and can’t wait to hit the slopes to shred the snow…But when there are some members of your party who do not ski. It can be a stressful thought to try and come up with ways to keep them occupied whilst you make the most of your time in the mountains.

Don’t worry! There are plenty of activities to keep even the most discerning traveler entertained and occupied...Especially with the help of our award-winning ski specialist team and concierge! To get an idea of the wonderful things that you can enjoy without skies strapped to your feet; we have compiled a list of our top six activity recommendations for non-skiers whilst staying in the resort.

Dog Sledging

Explore the mountains and plough through fresh powdery snow with a team of incredible Alaskan huskies. Whether you prefer to wrap up warm in a cosy blanket snuggled up to a love one on a sled, or taking control and standing up to drive and mush your powerful pups through the alpine countryside. Dog sledging is a fantastic experience for all ages and there is no experience necessary! 

Horse drawn carriage

Feel like you are living in a fairy-tale as you snuggle down under a cosy rug, riding through the beautiful, snowy countryside of St Moritz on a romantic horse drawn carriage ride. This is the perfect way to spend some quality time with your loved one, taking the breathtaking views of the mountains and alpine scenery whilst cuddled up and warm whilst listening to the gentle tap of the majestic horses feet in the snow.

Snow mobiling

Looking for something a little more fast paced? Discover a different side to the mountains by exploring the terrain by snow mobile. Take advantage of the emptying evening slopes and open space in Morzine by taking a tour at dusk to adventure into the valley. Great activity to do with friends, family or even by yourself!

Snow shoeing

Not the most stylish of ski wear on the slopes but this is a fun, active way to explore the mountains! Simply strap on two tennis racket like shoes and walk, run and jump around in the snow till your hearts content. You can book an off-piste a nature tour or just follow the signs and make snowy trails as you adventure around the white, powdery countryside.

Helicopter ride

One of the most incredible activities to experience and enjoy whether you are a skier or not! Take in the sensational, birds’ eye view of snow-capped mountains, glaciers and alpine forests as you fly elegantly across the Alps. For those a little more adventurous or wanting to celebrate a special occasion, why not stop off on top of a mountain for a bespoke luxury lunch on a table carved from the fresh snow? We highly recommend a helicopter ride in Verbier, Switzerland.

Spa Day

Annnnd relax! Take a break from outdoor activities and spend a well-earned lazy day in the spa. The perfect cure to relieve all of the stress from everyday life, heel sore muscles or just indulge in a fabulous pamper session. The French and Swiss Alps have some of the best spas and wellness areas in the World. Treat yourself to a range of luxury treatments, experience a traditional Turkish hammam and lounge in the Jacuzzi for a day of pure relaxation. One of our favourite spas is La Prairie spa in Le K2 5* hotel in Courchevel.  

At Elegant Address Ski, we are dedicated to finding your perfect, luxury ski chalet and creating your dream ski holiday experience. We are able organise and book a large range of incredible activities to make sure every member of your party has the most amazing holiday in the mountains. Get in touch today to talk to a ski expert to discuss how we can make your ski trip truly unforgettable.

Why book your winter ski trip now for 2016/17?

Every year we receive last minute calls from our clients, explaining their disappointment in losing out on their dream chalet from trying to book too late. Our most in-demand luxury chalets often get booked for peak weeks as early as the end of August!

Chalet Maria, Courchevel

Booking early and getting ahead of the game means that you will have prime choice of the most incredible properties, including some of the World’s best ski chalets. We can also easily match you with the most perfect chalet for you and your group’s requirements and any special requirements!   

Le Chardon, Val d'Isere

Abi, one of our fabulous ski specialist’s comments, “Now is not a natural time to start thinking about winter and definitely not natural to try and think about a snowy Christmas! But I can’t urge enough that it pays off to be organised when booking your ski trip this year. I always have a number of clients that try to book last minute but due to popular peak weeks being booked, they have to sometimes compromise. They are always the first to call to book their ski trip the following year!!  At this time of year availability is good, there is a large selection of beautiful chalets for you to see and we have plenty of time to organise your perfect luxury ski break.”

Abi on her fam trip to Meribel last season

It always feels good to be organised (and slightly smug) when it comes to booking holiday’s. Imagine just sitting back and relaxing for the rest of the year, not worrying about a last minute search but knowing your perfect chalet is waiting for you and your guests.

Chalet Le K2, Courchevel

To get started on the search for your dream luxury chalet for this winter, contact us today. We also have a selection highly private VIP chalets that are not on our website, get in touch for more details.

The World’s Best Ski Chalets 2015

With a wealth of luxury resorts, incredible pistes, après ski and beautiful surroundings; It’s no surprise that majority of the world’s best ski chalets are in the European Alps. This week, The Worlds Best Chalets have been announced in each country as well as ‘best newcomer’. We are hugely proud to say that we have all of the award winning chalets in our prestigious portfolios as we dedicate ourselves to only offering our clients the very best luxury accommodation in the Alps.

World’s Best New Chalet 2015

Chalet Sirocco, Verbier

An impeccable Chalet just 7 minutes’ drive from the centre of Verbier, an ample sized Villa with 585sqm of space to relax and unwind in. This is a new property opening only in the autumn 2014, with an ultimate alpine residence; you will be in awe of this exceptional Chalet with its own Entertainment Floor.

• Sleeps 8 guests
• Close drive to centre
• Entertainment Floor
• Ski Room

View the World's Best Chalet Newcomer 2015 here: http://goo.gl/X5v35Q 

Austria’s Best Chalet 2015

Chalet Uberhaus, Lech

Nestling in the exclusive enclave of Oberlech with breath-taking views of the surrounding peaks, this ski-in and ski-out chalet is one of Lech’s most prestigious luxury properties. The height of alpine chic, the chalet combines traditional materials with contemporary design and sumptuous soft furnishings to create a very elegant and sophisticated mountain retreat.

• Sleeps 10+4
• One of the most prestigious properties
• Ski In/ Ski Out
• Breath-taking views

View Austria’s Best Chalet 2015 here: http://goo.gl/jA95CI

France’s Best Chalet 2015

Chalet Grand Corniche, Les Gets

  

Grande Corniche is a fabulous recently built luxury chalet offering the utmost in style and technology. Located in the beautiful resort of Les Gets in the vast "Portes de Soleil" ski area, you are a mere hour’s drive from Geneva airport. The chalet is just a short drive away from the ski lifts and charming resort centre in your chauffeur driven 4x4.

• 7 Bedrooms
• Outdoor Jacuzzi
• Fully Catered
• Dedicated Service
• Champagne & Canapes Daily

View France's Best Chalet 2015 here: http://goo.gl/jDrj2a 

Switzerland’s Best Chalet 2015

 Chalet Zermatt Peak, Zermatt

Situated in one of the world’s most desirable and iconic locations, Chalet Zermatt Peak is the Alps new premier chalet with panoramic views over Zermatt and to the iconic Matterhorn. Comprising of 5 double bedrooms all with their own private en-suite bathrooms this beautiful chalet can accommodate up to 13 guests.

• 5 double/twin bedrooms en suite
•  Sauna, steam rooms, gym and outdoor Jacuzzi
• HD Cinema area, games consoles, Apple TV
• Internal lift
• Fully staffed with a team of 5 hospitality professionals

View Switzerland’s Best Chalet 2015 here: http://goo.gl/2P3hdU

Only a small selection of our luxury chalets appear on our website, we also have an exclusive, private portfolio to offer our clients. To book your perfect break in the mountains, call our dedicated European ski specialists today and receive a tailor-made ski holiday experience: +44 (0)1244 629963

Last minute CHRISTMAS availability – Quick!

It's not too late to wake up on Christmas morning and unwrap your presents while the snow falls gently outside. Spend an exhilarating afternoon carving down the perfect pistes, and return to your luxury chalet to sip champagne in your own private hot tub while your hosts prepare a sumptuous Christmas dinner with all your favourite trimmings - perfection!

Let Elegant Address Ski find you the perfect chalet for you to celebrate a fabulous Christmas surrounded by your friends and family.

We still have some last-minute availability in fantastic chalets across the French, Swiss and Austrian Alps, so don’t miss your last chance to spend the festive season in the most magical place in the world!

A Selection of Our Christmas Availability

Chalet Seven, Crans Montana - Sleeps 24

Mon Izba, Verbier - Sleeps 10 + 2

Chalet Jasmine Verbier – Sleeps 12

Grand Corniche –  Les Gets - Sleeps 12 + 3 **Special offer**

Chalet Maurine – Verbier – Sleeps 16

Chalet Le Paradis Chamonix – Sleeps 10 + 2 **Special offer**

Chalet Libellule Chamonix – Sleeps 12

Whether you’re looking for an exclusive, private winter retreat or an exciting family holiday in a fabulously luxurious chalet, let us find you The Address.

Elegant Address Ski: finding you The Address

Call us today: +44 (0) 1244 62 99 63

ski@elegant-address.com

Five Best Ski Scenes From James Bond

To celebrate the release of the latest James Bond last night, we have researched the best ski scenes in the epic action films.
Although there have been 24 official James Bond films, the action loving, seductive agent himself has only skied in 5 of them. Below are our top 5 favourite ski scenes, we look forward to see the next ones in the latest release!

5. The World Is Not Enough (Pierce Brosnan, 1999)

4. On Her Majesty's Secret Service (George Lazenby, 1969)

3. For Your Eyes Only (Roger Moore, 1981)

2. The Spy Who Loved Me (Roger Moore, 1977)

1. A View To Kill (Roger Moore, 1985)

In Spectre, the latest James Bond, they were filming in the snowy Austria mountains to add to the ski action with the latest Bond, Daniel Craig. To see how they film these chase scenes watch the behind the scenes here: http://goo.gl/wNNstt 

If you want to brush up on your ski action skills or just want a relaxing snowy trip - View our incredible Luxury ski chalets and Luxury Ski Hotels to rent across the Alps and feel confident that you are booking with dedicated ski specialists.

Or call your personal ski chalet expert today on +44 (0)1244 629963

The stars in the snow: Elegant Address Ski Michelin restaurant guide

Whether you’re a foodie who wants a gravity defying burger or a cultural enthusiast looking to try the most authentic local dish; there are plenty of inspiring restaurants across the French and Swiss ski resorts for all tastes and cravings. All of which stay humbly in the shadow of the exciting number of Michelin Star restaurants.

Here is our top selection of Michelin dining in the Alps.

France

Courchevel

For something unforgettably upscale try the edible art of chef Pierre Gagnier at Les Airelles (two stars). Surprising and sumptuous best describe this establishment, accented with jewel-toned silk curtains, Hermès tableware, and Saint Louis chandeliers.

At the table comes a parade of delights such as malabar-peppered goose liver soup with green lentil gnocchi, carob-rubbed red mullet oven baked on bread, and Indian Jelly (crystallised quince syrup and coconut milk lassi). Be prepared to spend anywhere from €200 to €600 per person.

Megeve

The audacity of chef Emmanuel Renaut sets Flocons de Sel (two stars) apart. He doesn't shy away from unconventional combinations like bitter and tart, making for some unexpected palette-pleasers. Signature dishes include fine pike stuffing with lake crawfish, roasted pigeon perfumed with juniper, and suckling lamb with black radish and prune purée.

Flocons de Sel also organises cooking classes for €60 featuring delicious but accessible themes like sauces and gravies, vegetable starters, and macaroons and other sweets. Fixed price menus range from €39 to €139.

Switzerland

Gstaad

The most unique dining experience can be had at Centre Champery in Champéry, where Chef Denis Martin has embraced the molecular cuisine movement. Dishes like abstract risotto (orange flavoured risotto with fried black pasta and parmesan flavoured bouillabaisse cube), beef tartar with egg at -196°C, and black tempura of whiting with rose yogurt and vanilla-infused parsnips will pique the curiosity of any true foodie. Fixed price menus range from 85 CHF to 175 CHF and tapas are priced at €16 for a four-piece portion.

Verbier

For a true inter-Alpine experience, try La Table d'Adrien at Verbier, where Chef Marco Bassi offers original dishes influenced by his Italian origins. Don't expect any pasta or pizza, though. On the menu, you'll find delectable creations like scallop and truffle carpaccio, clam and cockle soup, or roast venison with tricolour polenta. Fixed-price menus range from 160 to 210 CHF and offer an exceptional variety of tastes thanks to elaborate dishes with up to four accompaniments.

Source: InTheSnow