The Daily Telegraph - Saturday - Travel

‘A typical French chalet done well’

- Penny Walker

It’s the Four Seasons, but not as you know it. Developed in collaborat­ion with Edmond de Rothschild Heritage, Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois has all the hallmarks of the renowned hotel brand, but with welcome homey yet contempora­ry touches. The feel is one of a typical French chalet done well, rather than a Four Seasons for skiers.

LOCATION 8/10

Set above the ski resort of Megève, the hotel overlooks Mont d’Arbois, the Arly Valley and the Côte 2000, Rochebrune and Jaillet massifs. While it may be a two-mile drive from the pretty village centre, it is just a five-minute walk from the base of Mont d’Arbois, so is perfect for skiers.

STYLE & CHARACTER 9/10

The hotel comprises three very different chalets reflecting the characters of Benjamin and Ariane de Rothschild’s eldest daughters. Ariane has been heavily involved with their reimaginin­g and appointed interior designed Thierry Curty to maintain the family’s signature style, which is evident throughout; from the charming cuckoo clocks to the bottles of Rothschild wine that adorn the restaurant, Prima, and the fascinatin­g private collection of Edmond du Rothschild’s intricatel­y carved pipes. Chalet Ève is the traditiona­l heart of the hotel and is home to Prima, the Spa by Bamford and the bar. Chalet Noémie, once the private chalet for the Rothschild family, has a classic feel with a modern twist; Chalet Alice, a touch of the bohemian.

SERVICE & FACILITIES 9/10

The knowledge and expertise of staff was impressive, even on opening weekend. While the service is never slow, the food can take a while. Ana at the Spa by Bamford is gifted,

ROOMS 9/10

The Alpine Rooms can be found in either Chalet Ève or Chalet Noémie. They are the smallest of the hotel’s 35 rooms and six suites but are incredibly comfortabl­e. The traditiona­l cabinvibe is inherent with the scent of exposed wood and small wood-paned windows draped with heavy cream curtains. Every room is bright and airy, and bathrooms, each with a bath and shower, are stocked with local Codage products.

VALUE FOR MONEY 7/10

Alpine rooms from €520 (£440) in low season; and €880 (£750) in high. Breakfast €45 (£38). Free Wi-Fi.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

Yes. The chalets are designed to accommodat­e under-12s, with secret snugs and hidden nooks aplenty. Salon Clarke hosts the seasonal Kids’ Club.

ACCESS FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITI­ES

The chalets have steps but there is a lift down to Prima plus an accessible room and an accessible suite.

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