Unless you know someone who has been, you likely haven’t heard of Megève. Set in the Mont Blanc Massif, Megève is a very small and exclusive ski resort village in the French Alps.
The French Alps are no stranger to luxury villages, but this 3,000-populated gem packs a punch: snow parks, cross-country trails, downhill runs, and some of the most luxurious chalets the Alps has to offer.
The village is easily accessible from Annecy or Geneva, and its Mont Blanc mountain ranges are almost precisely at the three border crossings of France, Switzerland and Italy. But it is the village itself that is arguably the most impressive and its ability to consistently deliver a 5-star experience from start to finish. Here is why you should consider Megève as your next luxury skiing destination.
Luxury Full Service Chalets and Restaurants
Megève may be a small village but it has plenty of accommodation to choose from. Anything up to 20-guest chalets, like the Ferme du Passieu, are available. Many contain their own swimming pool and outdoor lounging area, as well as having some of the most charming and authentic rustic interior designs. Megeve luxury chalet rental are plentiful, yet the areas remain quiet and tranquil.
Of course, all these luxury chalets to rent need feeding, and there are some incredible eateries around. French menu fine dining options are available, such as the Restaurant étoilé Flocons de Sel and La Table de l’Alpaga, as well as a highly rated Japanese-Peruvian restaurant in Kaito.
Where Megève really shines, though, is in the mid-range restaurants that can be suited to bringing along children and larger groups. These are a dime a dozen, and given the small main pedestrian area of the village is, at most, half a kilometer, all of these are easily accessible on foot.
All Options Included With Your Luxury Chalet Rental
With 20 years of experience serving a high-end, loyal international clientele, Fée Pour Vous can organize visitors with not just chalets, but the delivery of ski equipment and instructors, along with tailor-made concierge and drivers. There is a lot of room for a 5-star, bespoke experience with many high-end hospitality services at your disposal. One of the most popular services is the private chef – a service that can completely change your experience of a holiday by having incredible food in the comfort of your chalet.
The Skiing
The mountains in this region of the Alps are highly versatile, making them ideal for a range of different abilities. The Mont Blanc pass will gain you access to 100 kilometers of pistes, unless you upgrade to the Evasion Mont Blanc pass, which then gains access to over 400 kilometers of pistes. There’s a lot to explore here, and there will be something for the serious free riders too.
In summary, there are:
- 35 Green runs
- 53 Blue runs
- 71 Red runs
- 24 Black runs
Jazz and Bars
Despite attracting visitors searching for luxury, there is some good nightlife around. Cocktail bars, rooftop bars, a casino, and perhaps best of all, the famous and charming Cinq Rues jazz bar. It’s no coincidence that there is a well-known jazz bar in Megève; it’s a village that has a history of jazz.
From the 30th of March to the 2nd of April, the Megève International Jazz Festival is held. Famous jazz musicians frequently make appearances, with great staging and sound there’s an incredible musical energy that is struck through the heart of the village.
This isn’t the only musical event that is on offer, though, as there is an international dance festival, DanceSport Open, that is hosted just one week after the Jazz Festival.
Things to Do in Megève
Beyond the overachieving nightlife of Megève, there’s a lot to do in the daytime. You will find ice rinks, curling, swimming pools, sled dogs, and hot air ballooning all to be enjoyed. The balloon tour of the Alps is particularly recommended, as you venture towards the Swiss and Italian borders and get a view of the Alps like you have never seen them before.
In between the skiing, there’s almost too much to see and do in a one-week holiday, despite Megève’s fairly low key demeanor. Photography lovers will revel in the great hiking trails around, whilst avid cyclists can enjoy a ride over towards the border on picturesque, quiet roads. Perhaps the most stunning area of the entire region is Lac de Javen, a breathtaking body of water that is surrounded by world-class restaurants. This is the final destination of a common, easy two-mile hike.
For shopping lovers, Megève is known for its boutiques and fashion clothing stores. Beyond the standard, craft gift shops that are around, there is a “concept store”, various art galleries, and a high street densely packed with clothing shops. Of course, those looking for more practical gear for their skiing are in luck, with some of the top brands and equipment being on offer.
