Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Hotel Mont-Blanc
Grantest Grande Dame
What it is
A circa 1849 legend with 41 recently revamped rooms, a Clarins spa, locavore restaurant and bar, heated outdoor pool and doting staff.
What it isn't
Perched directly under the ski lifts. But in a village as charming as this, you won’t mind.
What we think
When French interior designer Sybille de Margerie recently renovated the guest rooms here, she gave—as the saying goes—with both hands. Even the “standard room” here is anything but standard, with its carved blonde wood headboard wall with fanciful detailing, plush pink wingback chair and tray vaulted ceiling. We love the Mont-Blanc Junior Suites for their sunswept balconies and ginormous spa-like bathrooms, but whatever room you choose you’ll be treated like the V.I.P. you are—thanks to perks like Bose speakers, a curated minibar, zippy free WiFi, fluffy robes and slippers, a Nespresso machine, Clarins bath products, and oh-so-much more.
You're here because
You love little more than a dip after a ski day, and it’s rare to find a hotel in the Alps with an outdoor pool that stays open year-round…even as the snowfall swirls.
The Moment
Perched next to the open fireplace at Restaurant Le Matafan, you find yourself truly besotted: with your house-smoked salmon cooked over a wood fire and served with local lentils, yes, but also with the scenery. It’s a glitterati hangout, and it shows.
Restaurants & Bars
Le Matafan - An elegant and warm atmosphere designed by Sybille De Margerie
Bar Lounge - A place to have a drink or to eat at any time of the day
Location
Just a one hour drive from Geneva International Airport, or a two and a half hour drive from Lyon.