M de Megève

You’ll have to forgive the monied elite for still referring to Megève — that Mecca of ski chalets, with the highest concentration of Michelin stars in the Alps — as a “village.” Sure, it enjoys the same slope access and Rothschild-esque après-ski culture as always, but it’s clearly moved beyond the hidden gem stage, even from the ultra-luxe hotelier perspective. To its credit, Le M de Megève fully embraces this high-style Savoyard heritage, your classic ski chalet to its core. You can’t really blame them: elevated sport that it is, alpine skiing dovetails naturally with upper-crust airs, and besides, it’s no fun not to flaunt in such company.

The 42 rooms and suites each come with a balcony overlooking the picturesque (we mean it) village or the majestic interior courtyard with mirror-smooth ponds. Beautiful though the blond timber and pristine mountain light are to behold, your sense of touch might be the most rewarded: Arpin fabrics and lusciously thick wall-to-wall carpets will render you forgivably barefoot and handsy in short order. No half-measures here; we advise the suite for the resort’s full complement of amenities, including a minibar with Nespresso machine, bedside automation, flatscreens, and wi-fi.

Downstairs, a couple of restaurants and a full-service bar round out the chalet appeal. Le Bistrot du M serves intimate, haute-chic cuisine with an emphasis on regional flavors, while Le Sommet dazzles with an open-kitchen gastronomic display. M’s Bar slings booze of all varieties — including an intriguing “hot cocktail” menu — paired with a small-plate flavor tour.

Please note: Le M de Megève is a seasonal hotel and accepts reservations mid-June through August and mid-December through mid-April.

How to get there: Le M de Megève is approximately 86 km by car from Geneva International Airport via E25 and D1212 and 175 km by car from Lyon--Saint Exupéry Airport via E70, A430, and D1212.