La Bergerie: The ultimate opulent winter getaway

Spending a week on the slopes is a must for many Europeans, with thousands flocking to Les Trois Vallées – the largest ski area on earth – in the French Alps every year. Nestled high in the mountains is the exclusive resort of Courchevel 1850, named for its altitude and widely cited as the sixth most expensive place in the world. Traditional wooden chalets have dotted the powdery white landscape for years, providing respite for weary skiers after a full day on the piste, but the new La Bergerie chalet redefines the concept of an alpine retreat, with its breathtaking interior that is quite simply, the epitome of luxury.

The architect, Jean-Philippe Velghe-Michaux, and the interior designer, Alain Foeillet, worked together to create a mountain haven worth its Dh1.1 million per week rental price. In the concept stage, both designers looked at the practical requirements – the durability of the materials in the sub-zero temperatures – as well as how to achieve the level of comfort and luxury expected from such an exclusive property. Alain explains, “For me, the sense of luxury comes from the scale of the property and the feeling of space. This chalet is 1,500 square metres, which makes it one of largest in the Alps.”

The vast home has been carefully planned with attention paid to every detail. Stretching across the top floor, the stunning living area enjoys a staggering view of the mountains and the Bellecote piste. A central contemporary fireplace divides the seating area, offering privacy for larger groups. “I would describe the decor as sleek and contemporary,” says Alain. “And the choice of materials and finishes – stone, marble, stained brushed spruce – are all extremely high-end.”

The list of luxe interior brands used in the house reads like a who’s who of European design, with the great and good of Italy, France, Austria, Spain and Belgium all represented in the home. B&B Italia, Donghia, Poltrona Frau, Cassina and Kettal are just a few of the luxurious and elite furniture design houses whose pieces are featured in the home.

Similarly, the materials chosen for the sofas, curtains and cushions are from top fabric houses including Casamance, Lelievre, Rubelli Sahco and Pierre Frey. Striking a balance between comfort, durability and elegance was foremost in the designers’ minds. Soft and sumptuous textures add to the stylish interiors and include chenille and silk mixes, faux-fur throws from Zinc, and beautiful bed linen from Treca and the luxury French brand Turpault.

There would be no better sight after a long day on the black-diamond runs than the exceptionally appointed bedrooms. There are two master suites and five en
suite bedrooms, each with deep baths, rainforest showers and separate Japanese-style restrooms. Beautiful headboards, leather panels from StudioArt and
delicately woven curtains all work together to exude a feeling of opulence and relaxation in each of the gorgeous rooms.

The most decadent area of the house is the lower-ground floor. A 20-metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, a Pevonia spa treatment room and a state-of-the-art fitness room with the latest Technogym equipment are all perfect ways to relax après-ski. The chalet also houses a home cinema, fully equipped with HD projector, movie database and game consoles. In fact, you may even be tempted to forgo the slopes entirely and spend the whole day having your every whim catered to in this stunning chalet.