Megève
Known as the 21st arrondissement of Paris, Megève embodies urban French refinement in a distinctly alpine setting.
1. Elevated stays
In Megève, the art of hosting has been perfected over a century – a balance of comfort, elegance and Alpine charm. Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois recalls the resort’s origins – set within three chalets once owned by the Rothschild family, whose vision helped define its distinctive sophistication. This year saw the completed reopening of the five-star Lodge Park after an extensive renovation that added an 800 sq m state-of-the-art spa. Nearby, the Four Seasons Hotel Megève offers contemporary calm with its spa and mountain-view pool, as well as ski-in, ski-out access to Mont d’Arbois.
After a day on the slopes, one of Megève’s many hotel spas is the perfect place for a soothing massage or pine-infused hammam.
2. Leisurely pace
Well placed in the vast Évasion Mont-Blanc domain, the resort offers access to more than 400km of immaculately groomed slopes. With views of Mont Blanc from much of the terrain, the runs favour those who ski for pleasure as much as pace. Between long, scenic descents, skiers pause at slope-side terraces for a glass of vin chaud – a reminder that refinement in Megève extends gracefully all the way down the mountains.
3. Haute cuisine
From village bistros to refined dining rooms, Megève serves a taste of French gastronomy shaped by its Alpine setting. Celebrated chef Emmanuel Renaut leads the charge with his newly renovated three Michelin-starred restaurant Flocons de Sel. Le Vieux Megève provides a rustic counterpart – a traditional farmhouse setting that serves classic Savoie dishes. Other highlights in the resort include Michelin-starred Vous, headed by chef Julien Gatillon, and La Table de Marc Veyrat and Mallory Gabsi, a collaborative dining experience by the two renowned chefs.
Haute-Savoie fare is warm and comforting – think rich fondue, golden tartiflette and hearty sausages simmered in wine.
4. Creative drive
The village is home to more than 10 art galleries and a lively programme of exhibitions that bring year-round colour to its cobbled streets. January’s prestige car competition and exhibition L’Élégance à Megève will see a parade of vintage cars drive through town in a celebration of style and heritage. The annual event also includes a driver’s outfit competition, adding a stylish, leather-gloved touch to the automotive passion on display. And in March, the Classiquicime Megève festival will host four days of classical music, with 10 concerts staged across three venues.
Inside Le Palais Megève, the largest sports complex in the Alps, lies a surprise: a bright cultural area with rotating exhibitions.
5. Village living
In Megève’s traffic-free medieval heart, cobbled lanes encircle the resort’s festive tree, open-air ice rink and softly lit church. Smart boutiques line arcades, while horse-drawn carriages and evening strolls set the pace for enjoying the charm of an authentic Alpine village.
