We looked into the world’s most opulent ski chalets and shortlisted their ample amenities to the five most fabulous features. If you want to ski in style, make these your mountain lodge must-haves.
1. Private pool
A luxury chalet can hardly be classed as a luxury chalet without its own swimming pool, and each property adds its own unique features… For the one pictured, the owner commissioned internationally renowned fashion guru Christian Lacroix to design tilework that would complement the ceiling (a unique feature imported from Moroccan market). Lacroix installed gold leaf tiles and goddess mosaics. The same pool boasts a drop-down projector screen and a DJ set.
2. …as part of a health centre
Skiing, cold weather and après ski parties can be tough on the limbs, so having a spa alongside your aforementioned pool is a necessity. This ‘chalet estate’ pictured has waterfalls, jacuzzis (both inside and outside), saunas, hammams and a gym surrounding its two swimming pools. Masseuses are on call for any treatments necessary.
3. Gourmet genius
Once a chalet has a state-of-the-art kitchen, designer dining room and fully stocked wine cellar, it’s all about bringing in the talent. Be sure to have a private chef – whether just to serve stunning breakfasts or every last meal and snack. After that, the sky is the limit – add a mixologist to man the bar, sommelier to host wine tastings or take inspiration from the gurus of luxury skiing sno, fly in a celebrity chef and entertainer and host an unforgettable mountainside dinner party…
4. Bespoke bathrooms
If you’ve read this NY Times article, you’ll see that baths are instagrammed more than ever which means those après-ski soaks must be photogenic. The best chalets have bathrooms boasting panoramic views, exquisite tiling and statement tubs – besides this granite chiselled tub (which weighs two tonnes, and needed a crane to install), the chalet pictured has another clad in cowhide.
5. Toys
Entertainment for when you’re off the slopes is essential, and that means much more than a TV set and board game. This chalet has the coolest toys we’ve ever seen, including a 3D movie theater, gaming room, poker room, billiards, bowling alley and integrated sound system.
