Mineral Lodge

Sometimes a hotel isn’t just a hotel, it’s a modern architectural landmark. Here’s what you need to know about the Mineral Lodge, located at an altitude of 1200 meters in the Rhône-Alpes region of the French Alps. The project was conceived by celebrated architect and philosopher Christian Girard, one of the founders of the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture Paris Malaquais, and constructed on the ruins of an old chalet-style farmhouse perched high in the mountainous landscape. The result is a sustainably built and tech-forward stone and rock structure with spectacular views over cliffs and valleys — and a pretty inspired piece of design.

Some liberties have naturally been taken with the concept of a traditional chalet: there are rules for how these can be built, you see, that vary according to the hamlet. This is a modern, minimal chalet with airy open spaces, smooth wood, soaring ceilings, huge skylights, sharp angular staircases, gigantic glass panes, and a concrete roof.

Five silent, perfectly sleek guestrooms feature all the stone and wood details you’d expect, plus large flat-screen TVs, luxurious walk-in showers and linens you’ll want to take home with you. Some rooms have private terraces; otherwise, the lodge’s panoramic terrace and chic glass-encased living area are the best places to gape at the gorgeous scenery and contemplate the day’s hike or ski run. (When you’re through contemplating and ready to get moving, the ski slopes and trails of Les Arcs Paradise are just outside.) And if all this talk of modern design and minerals strikes you as a bit cold? Architecture aside, the lodge still has the guest in mind — the floors are all heated from underneath.