The village of Megève is in southeastern France, a short drive from the more casual hamlet, Chamonix. What originated as an exclusive ski area born of the arrival of Baroness Noémie de Rothschild in 1921 is now a year-round playground for discerning travelers who desire an upscale setting with a low-key vibe. The Baroness fell in love with Megève’s easy rhythm of local life, which eluded her in the more socially pressured Swiss village of St. Moritz. She built a ski resort at the same time as her legendary home, The Domaine du Mont d’Arboise. Megève is a former medieval market town dating from the 14th century, but today, it is a member of The Best of the Alps group of premier resort destinations.
Where to Stay
One of the best things about Megève is that luxury hotels, fine dining, and upscale spas are within walking distance or noticeably short rides to town. Among the best, the Four Seasons Megève is a stunning resort on the quiet slopeside area above town. The hotel is a dream spot for summer lounging with incredible views of vistas below or engaging in summer activities—golfing, biking, and hiking. One of their best rooms is an elegant, enormous one-bedroom, two-bath suite with a separate office. Each area boasts stunning sunset views from inside, or take advantage of the spacious balconies to enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Four Seasons Megève keeps to the alpine charm with chic designer touches, making the decor warm and inviting. Baroness Ariana de Rothschild personally assisted with the interior design, which is evident by the display of pieces from her art collection, most notably from her travels to Africa. The expansive spa and indoor/outdoor pool areas were luxurious, with a relaxed, soothing atmosphere.
Summer Activities
It is easy to see why the Baroness fell in love with Megève during the winter, with clean, fresh powder covering the landscape, casting an enchanting spell on the village. As beautiful as winter is, summer is equally bewitching. Hiking the over 150 meters of trails on the Mountain Le Jaillet offers trekkers a serene experience.
Something for everyone, the combination of outdoor action and relaxation is perfected in Megève. The public recreation center Le Palais des Sports hosts an aquatic center, racket sports courts, climbing walls, a gym area, and a basketball arena. The facility is also home to a fantastic health spa named the Spa des Sports.
Wellness is part of an integral mindset for creating a positive psyche of Megève residents, where exercise and self-care are encouraged. Visitors can find everything needed to shake off work and settle into the vacation rhythm in one of the many soothing spas. Many upscale spas offer international treatments using Hammams, hot and cold plunge pools, and the latest facials and massage treatments. If you are staying at the Four Seasons, relax by the indoor/outdoor pool or have a facial at the spa. If staying in town, Hotel Mont Blanc’s Igloo Spa features Pure Altitude products for personalized skin treatments and unwinding massages in cool treatment cabins (pun intended).
Strolling along the cobblestone streets is enjoyable, popping into chic boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. Shopping is a strength for this hamlet, and there is no better place to choose personally tailored clothes than at the legendary shop, Aallard. This institution has been around since 1926. Just up the street is their accessories shop with one-of-a-kind leather handbags, purses, wallets, and scarves.
Megève has electronic bikes you can take down to town from the Four Seasons hotel or along many trails throughout the valley and back up again, stopping for a round of golf or a coffee. You can even ride them to the small local airport and hire a tourist plane from Aérocime to fly you within a few short minutes above the clouds for unparalleled panoramic views of Mont Blanc’s mythical peaks.
Where to Eat
In the summer, outdoor cafes and bars are lively spots for quick bites and hand-crafted cocktails.
Megeve’s gem, Flocons Village, serves “no-nonsense food for epicureans” in a charming atmosphere. In the center of town, this petit bistro is a delightful dining spot created by Michelin’s three-star chef, Emmanuel Renaut. His devotion to respecting local cheese producers means diners get the best selections at their tables. In contrast to regional cuisine, Kaito at the Four Seasons is known for its Japanese classics with golf courses and mountain views. Dinner is perfectly casual yet formally served. Kaito is convenient for golfers, skiers, and hikers, as is the nearby La Ferme du Golf at the end of the Mont d’Arbois Golf Course. Everything they serve, including beers on tap, is produced locally. Their food combines easy slopeside salads and burgers to comfort food raclettes and fondues. Every item chosen is with the positive intention of showcasing local farmers respecting nature in every dish.
Try the high-end trattoria Cosa Papa for a family-friendly night out for bowling, followed by dining on pizza and anti-pasta. Even if you strike out in the lanes, you will score well with their authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.
Tips for Travel to Megève
Megève – Fly into Geneva. No car is needed if staying in town or at the Four Seasons. Their excellent shuttle service works on demand and will give you a quick ride to/from the village. Everything you need is within walking distance once you are in town. Book e-bikes in advance, and be sure to wear your helmets!
