Megève has long been known as the French High Society’s number one destination for ski holidaying in the Alps. With its chick boutiques, Michelin star restaurants and luxury accommodation, it is no wander that the majority of top dogs in the French corporate world own property in Megève. But what exactly is it that earns Megève its place at the top of the luxury ski destinations? How does it compare to the Courchevel’s and Davos’s of this world?
Megève is ideally situated just over an hours drive from Geneva airport making it refreshingly easily accessible. Set in the open Arly Valley it boast of one of the highest sun exposures of many of the Haute Savoie ski resorts and at 1100m in altitude it traps the sun perfectly. The village is made up of a maze of cobbled boutique laden streets that lead to the central church square, where open air shows and presentations regularly take place. Cafes and terraced restaurants bring the town to life during the busy winter and summer seasons- and horse drawn sleighs or chariots replace the taxis in this picturesque mountain resort.
The efficient lift system whooshes you up to the mellow tree lined slopes above Megève town. Perfect for families, the terrain is gentle and there is no shortage of gourmet mountain restaurants. For those looking for more of an adrenaline boost, its worth hiring a guide and hiking some of the ridge lines around the peak of Mont Joly- unforgettable lines.
Property prices are high in Megève but it simply takes a walk down the high street to realise what it is you are paying for. All the amenities of a normal ski resort are readily available but there is a charm, a class, a ‘je ne sait quoi’, that makes Megève truly luxury.