October 10, 2022
France with friends: 72 hours in Megève
Looking for the perfect holiday destination for a luxurious getaway? It doesn’t get much better than the breathtaking resort of Megève, in the Haute-Savoie region of France. Well-known for its ski season, you can enjoy jam-packed days on the slopes and come back to the comfort of idyllic lavish accommodation for some much-needed R&R.
Megève is the perfect place for a break with close friends, a partner or family and offers something for everybody with hospitality at the heart of the village.
Here’s all you need to know about this spectacular holiday destination.
The Best Hotel Options
Looking for the perfect place to stay? Here are the top three places I’d recommend:
Grand Hotel Du Soleil D’or Hotel Megève
This stunning epicurean refuge consists of 16 rooms, three breathtaking chalets with views of neighbouring peaks, a restaurant with a relaxed local cuisine, a rooftop bar with daring cocktails and a Chocolaterie, a gourmet paradise and a confidential spa. It really is a luxury sanctuary and the whole team’s aim is to make your experience as memorable as possible the second you enter.
This is the stay of dreams for chocolate lovers globally, as the hotel wholly embraces its chocolate theme throughout starting with the names of the rooms, chocolate from Jean-Paul Hévin, even a signature full body massage with almond oil and dark chocolate. The bathrooms were completely divine with bathtubs fit for two people.
I’d also highly recommend purchasing a bottle of “Edelweiss Cacao” created especially for the hotel. The fragrance starts gently, like a little flurry of snowflakes, then floral tones take centre stage and, with this, a few bitter notes of cocoa. The softness of musks follows, without overpowering the edelweiss.
La Ferme du Golf – Edmond de Rothschild
Conveniently situated in the Le Maz part of Megeve, this gorgeous hotel puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. The hotel is simply wonderful and is decorated in a cosy alpine style. It’s situated in the luscious green surroundings of the mountains, with the perfect outside spot for a morning coffee. The rooms are quaintly decorated and kitted out beautifully. The real star of the show for this hotel is the phenomenal southwest views over the valley and mountain. Every room also has a balcony and the breakfast is spot on. This 3.5 star hotel easily sits at a 4* thanks to all of the above.
This modern chalet builds on the legacy of the Edmond de Rothschild family who set out to create an unrivalled resort experience nearly a century ago. Distinct French character, pure Alpine tradition, and an intimate and inviting setting in both summer and winter define this mountain retreat. Enjoy its ski in ski out access, play one of the world’s finest Alpine golf courses, relax in the region’s largest Spa and dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant La Dame de Pic – Le 1920.
The 55 rooms and suites are exactly what you would expect of a Four Seasons hotel, with every little detail designed for absolute ease and comfort –with the majority of rooms offering a private balcony or terrace with mountain or valley views; suites have a working fireplace.
The Food and Drinks
Dine under the vaulted, wooden ceiling or have lunch on the outside terrace while admiring Alpine views at La Dame de Pic – Le 1920. Anne-Sophie Pic, the world’s most Michelin-distinguished female chef, imagines a new culinary experience with Savoyard produce and her signature quest for new, complex flavour combinations.
This Michelin Starred Restaurant focuses on excellent local produce combined with Anne-Sophie’s favourite herbs and aromatic plants. She uses local produce and gets inspired while combining it with her favourite herbs and aromatic plants.
One of the highlights of the whole menu was the extremely knowledgeable Sommelier. He may have been one of the best I’ve ever met who’s pairing capability was sheer genius combined with a passion and excitement for his job.
This restaurant is located on the classified site of Calvaire just a 10-minute walk from the outdoor ice rink. It has a stunning panoramic terrace and offers refined traditional and Savoyard cuisine. An ideal lunch spot whilst exploring Megève met with warmth and welcome. The dishes themselves were also exquisitely presented, delicious and well-priced. A hidden gem that should not be missed.
Located in the old Casino, this modern meets retro Italian trattoria encapsulates fun family or friends evenings. This cosy winter garden decor invites you to share delicious Neapolitan pizzas and antipasti whilst enjoying bowling. The bar is the perfect spot for a lively Megève evening.
The Activities
Obviously, you can Ski (and should!) but there are many exciting activities you can do whilst in the village! Here are a few of the musts:
If you’re looking for something you’ll remember for the rest of your life then Aerocime is a must. They are the Megève airline that offers scenic flights around the breathtaking Mont Blanc. Whisked up in an aircraft for 35 minutes, you’ll see the mountains in proximity like no other, within inches of the mountains. An extremely skilled pilot, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
You don’t have to rely on pedal power to enjoy this activity and you don’t have to be super fit either. E-bikes are the perfect way to sightsee with plenty of route options depending on your activity level and entourage. With over 300 km of bike trails in the resort, there’s something for every level and time scale.
A mecca for sport and well-being, the Palais Megève is perfect for swimming, sauna or even aqua training. Open to all, these aquatic activities offer you all the benefits and pleasures of water in the heart of the Megève mountains.
In Conclusion
From the first steps in the village, the very special atmosphere that reigns in Megève envelops you. From the square’s impressive bell tower of the church to the bustling Sunday market, shops, art galleries and terraces. The stamp of a mountain architecture which, between modernity and avant-gardism, knew how to respect its history.
Written by Kaya Cheshire for Luxuria Lifestyle London and International
