by If there’s one thing I don’t like about skiing, it’s the concrete jungle resorts that have sprung up to accommodate the massive amounts of snow chasers that descend on the mountains each winter.
Some of these 1960s brutalist constructions, sprouting up incongruously in the most breathtaking natural wilderness, are the epitome of soullessness.
At the other end of the resort spectrum is Megève. Nestled at the foot of the Mont Blanc massif, this French village resort is a culturally rich and architecturally beautiful winter playground.
Megève was a thriving agricultural center for centuries until farmers recognized its potential as a winter sports destination in the early 20th century. They began building and testing some of France’s first ski lifts, and in 1914 the village hosted its first ski competition.
Even though Megève has become one of the most convenient access points to a sprawling 400km ski area overlooking Mont Blanc, it is still a charming destination in its own right. The famous village square is dominated by an exquisite 18th-century clock tower, the streets are a maze of shops, cafes and restaurants.
One of the most famous accommodation options in this magical village is the five-star Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or. Dating back to 1901, it is Megève’s oldest and possibly most beautiful hotel.
This is what you need to know…
Where is it?
The Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or is located in the heart of Megève on Rue Charles Feige. The village’s ski school is a five-minute walk and 500 meters from the nearest chairlift. The hotel offers direct access to the Evasion Mont Blanc ski area.
As the fourth largest ski area in France, it is perfect for beginners and advanced skiers and includes the ski areas of Saint Gervais, Saint Nicolas de Véroce, Combloux and La Giettaz, as well as Megève. The nearest airport is Geneva, an hour’s drive away.
Style?
The hotel interior combines the traditional charm of the Haute-Savoie region with modern elegance. A comforting timelessness is underlined by the use of ancient materials: natural stone floor tiles, pine wood paneling, a crackling fire in the lounge – while the upcycled furniture, colorful tartans, plaids, books and whimsical artwork offer a certain cozy charm.
Which room?
The hotel’s 29 rooms are located between the historic main building and the three chalets Le Pionnier, Les Trois Champions and La Benne Rouge. Every room and suite in the hotel offers exceptional views of the Alps.
I stayed at Chalet Les Trois Champions – named after Megeve’s famous Olympians, the Duvillard family, who combined ultra-chic 1970s flair with elegant gold accents.
The four-bedroom chalet can accommodate up to eight guests and also features a beautiful ground floor living room with fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen and dining room, and a private terrace.
Food & Drink
The comfort factor is further increased in the hotel’s restaurant La Fromagerie, where traditional Savoyard favorites such as raclette and fondue are the order of the day. A big draw for visitors and locals alike is La Chocolaterie, where you can enjoy hot chocolate in a variety of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a burst of cocoa that will make your cheeks glow as you sip your cup by the fireplace.
There is a rooftop bar at the top of the hotel, inviting you to enjoy a drink or three with stunning views of the village and the mountains beyond. The bar’s signature cocktails, particularly the personalized Old Fashioned with 12-year-old Macallan and a selection of bitters, are divine.
Facilities
The hotel spa has a wellness area with a heated indoor pool, sauna, hammam and whirlpool as well as three treatment cabins for one or two people. The treatment offering includes personalized peels and massages as well as unique chocolate massages.
The city itself is an iconic winter sports destination. In addition to access to more than 400 km of ski slopes, it also offers three Nordic ski areas, snowshoeing, dog sledding, ice climbing and an Olympic-sized ice rink.
In summer, the snow gives way to green alpine meadows and reveals numerous signposted paths for mountain biking, hiking or trail running. Other activities on offer include hot air ballooning, paragliding, canyoning and rafting.
What about Instagram?
La Chocolaterie is picture-perfect and will bring your inner child to life. The retro ski lifts at Mont d’Arbois are the epitome of alpine cool and the breathtaking views of Mont Blanc as you step off these lifts will take your breath away.
Details
Stays at the Grand Hotel Soleil d’Or start from £584 per night for two guests sharing a deluxe room on a single room basis. Price based on stays in March 2025. For more information and to book. soleildor-megeve.com
