Big Bear

Perfect for Goldilocks

Big Bear is big and it is luxurious, probably among the most luxurious chalets in the Chamonix valley. Old Argentière, where the chalet is found, retains its charm and a sense of tradition at the same time as being the access point for some of the most challenging skiing in the Alps. Unusually, Argentière has managed to build a reputation that attracts hard core mountain adventurers at the same time as offering fun-filled days for skiers of all levels. It is super family friendly.

Big Bear is spacious. Eleven guests can spread out among five bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms. That extra one can be found on a beautifully crafted bunkbed in one of the doubles. It is a delightful family hideout, where privacy and peace meet exciting skiing and a typical mountain town.

The ambiance of the authentic chalet, weathered timber abundantly used for wood panelled walls and ceiling rafters, is complemented by attention to detail and comfort. Vast open plan living is subtly divided up so that a large group will find sociability and space. Big chairs and wide sofas round a stone fireplace create a civilised living room for conversation and board games; the snug beyond is a cosy space for TV watching, or to curl up with a book. A long dining table with benches continues the rustic chalet vibe, while the adjacent kitchen embraces modernity. There is further evidence for this thoughtfully stylish approach to chalet interiors in the clever use of light. Strategically there are large windows to let in the view to the mountain range dominated by the majesty of Mont Blanc. They manage, however, not to detract from the traditional look of the building and there are small paned windows here and there that fit the environment.  

Luxury is carried into the bedrooms and bathrooms without compromise. Graciously proportioned with an eye to those little touches – an elegant chair here, large walk-in showers there – each one is a haven. Four are on the ground floor, and the master, taking the whole of the second floor, opens onto balconies with views to the Grands Montets.

Big Bear keeps on giving. It knows about fine living with a wine cellar and a piano. It understands practicalities - the pantry has its separate service entrance and there is a fully equipped laundry room. And it appreciates the pleasures that resonate with a holiday in the mountains. The sauna will warm through chilled bones and the end of the day; the hot tub out on the huge terrace is that sybaritic moment of fun as the sun sinks and the stars start to sparkle.

Big Bear is not, you will have gathered, an aggressive grizzly. Rather, it is that cuddly best friend of your childhood, somewhere you are safe and nurtured, divinely comfortable, and with whom you share the adventures and the good things that make your life special.