In summary
The monastery itself (original name and religious calling unknown) has survived centuries of avalanches, tough weather conditions and heavy snow fall. Boasting a total built-in space of over 700 square metres, spread over 5 floors, the monastery, after renovation, is now divided into two self-contained chalets: Fleur de Lys et Everest.
The original walls of the building are 1 metre thick at its thinnest points, and the building backs into the mountain, nestling in it for two of its five levels.
In seeking to make the chalets the most luxurious mountain haven, even the smallest design detail was conceptualised with both beauty and comfort in mind, without compromise to the respectful spirit and quality of the original monument. The result is a re-incarnation of the dignified representation of wealth which cocooned 17th century visitors in peaceful contentment when they arrived at the monastery to seek tranquillity.
Bedrooms
Suite Castenz:
Named after the Castenz Pyramid in Indonesia (which is the highest summit in Australia/Oceania) this suite is decorated in rich tones of green and gold, with a touch of Islamic culture.
Suite Kosciusko:
Sunny hues reflecting the colours of Australia mix with earthy cast iron and aboriginal craftwork in Suite Koscisuko. Mount Kosciusko standing at 2,228 metres above sea-level is in fact less than half as high as the Castenz Pyramid, but vies favourably with Castenz in the official list of Seven Summits as Australia is indisputably a continent, whereas Oceania is strictly speaking, not one.
Grand Suite Everest:
Highest of all the Seven Summits is Mount Everest in Asia. In this Grand Suite, on display are hand-woven ethnic tapestries and specially commissioned mandalas. The result is an exotic explosion of colours, which pays homage to Tibetan culture.
Grand Suite Denali:
Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, is in Alaska, where night sky viewing under the Northern Lights is a compelling and unforgettable experience. This Grand Suite draws inspiration from the stark breathtaking beauty of the dramatic Alaska night sky and landscape.
Suite Elbrus:
Mount Elbrus is located in Europe high up in the Caucasus, where legend persists that Zeus chained Prometheus here to punish him for stealing fire from the Gods to give to man. Superstition and mysticism thrive in the harsh conditions of this unforgiving mountain. This Suite is decorated with flashing lamps, fur hides and animal carvings, embracing the spirit of Caucasian shamanic ecstasy.
Suite Vinson Massif:
Antarctica is the coldest continent in the world, containing over 90% of the world’s ice. Glass and mirrors in this Suite evoke the prismatic and refractive qualities of ice crystals which famously create the spectacularly colourful dawns and sunsets in the Ellesworth Mountain Range. Vinson Massif towers over the range at its highest point.
Grand Suite Kibo:
Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa has 3 volcanic peaks of which Kibo is the highest. Exceptionally, every climate type on earth is encountered on any ascent up to Kibo, due to its equatorial location and high altitude. The décor of Grand Suite Kibo is like a journey up to Kibo with a multitude of colours as seen in the layers of volcanic strata, the variety of which is matched only by the fauna and flora of these mountains.
Grand Suite Aconcagua:
Aconcagua is the highest mountain peak outside Asia and is located in the Andes Mountain Range in South America. Here in this ‘black and red’ suite, the rich history traceable to the indigenous races can be seen in ceramics basketry and knitting and the region’s significant Spanish influences are both evident, with elaborate floral motifs in strong reds and dark-coloured woodwork and tapestry.
Indoors & Outdoors
The dining rooms of the two chalets can be interconnected for banquets serving up to 40 persons, and for special gastronomic events presented by visiting celebrity chefs invited by the owners and Anton Mosimann.
Living Area :
Both chalets offer warm relaxing fires by which to enjoy anything from a goblet of traditional mulled wine to the most exotic cocktail. In Chalet Weigela, the original stone fireplace has been restored and renewed, and guests can delight in roasting marshmallows or basting the occasional roast, while sipping champagne. The modern designer glass fireplace on the other hand stands tall and significant between the hall and the living room while the completely see-through effect of the dual glass faces allow the flickering flames to provide entertainment on both sides. Leather and furs combine to provide comfortable seating all around the living rooms, with games and books available to cater for a variety of interests.
Above the dining tables, chandeliers of coloured glass complement a stylish mix of antique mirrors and candelabras. The specially commissioned black and gold dining tables are accompanied by ornate hand-made chairs, each covered with individually patterned shearling fur.
Internet :
Wireless broadband connections are available free-of-charge in all public areas and in bedroom suites
Cigar Room :
Settle into the cosy marble and glass cigar rooms, each with built-in humidor and banquette seating to savour a cigar or a cognac, or music or all three. The warm red colours of the marble are enriched by inviting thick fur cushions, which guests can sink lazily into to light up in peace, without disturbance from or to other guests.
Wellness Area :
Enjoy the views of the mountains from within. Sit on antique armchairs among colourful Tibetan mountain rugs and indulge in afternoon tea après ski or a big English breakfast before skiing. Book a group ‘foot-massage’ session, to add to the après ski experience – and enjoy total relaxation as the sun sets outside.
Sauna :
A real Russian sauna in each chalet, made with imported authentic Siberian pine, can warm your muscles up quickly after a day’s exercise on the pistes.
Swimming Pool :
The state-of-the-art swimming pool in each chalet offers you a real-life James Bond experience.. The pools are finished in red marble and disappear at the touch of a button under a grey marble floor. The underwater colours change to suit your mood and the depth of the pools can be varied to suit different swimming abilities and purposes. Both pools have Jacuzzis and wave-machines and with an indoor and an outdoor section, guests can choose to bask in hot water under the stars, while snow gently falls caressing faces, bare shoulders and melting in champagne.
Ski Room :
The skirooms of the chalets both have direct access to outside. The skirooms are fully equipped with electric boot-warmers, blow heaters and ski-racks.
Staff & Services
Chalet rental includes the following services:
- Access to ‘Round the Clock’ Staff.
- Daily Breakfast.
- Daily After-Ski Tea.
- Cocktails & Canapes with 4 Course Dinner of 5 evenings of your choice.
- All Drinks ‘On the House’ for resident guests (hot and cold ‘soft’ beverages, house champagne and wines with open bar of selected beers/ spirits).
- In-resort Chauffeured Transport for pick-ups and drop-offs (only between 8am and 1am of following morning).
- Daily Housekeeping and Turn Down Service.
Other services on request are available (extra cost):
- Out of Resort transport including airport transfers.
- Ski fitting (in-chalet) and equipment hire.
- Ski or Pedestrian passes (issued in-house).
- Ski or Snowboard Instructors.
- Nanny services.
- Massage treatments.
- Fireworks.
- Special provisions (particular items of food or drink can be sourced and purchased for delivery to chalet before arrival).
- Celebration Event Gala Menu.
- Restaurant reservations.
- Winter Excursions & Experiences.
Location
The Chalet enjoys one of the best possible locations, right on the edge of the slopes. Ski back to the chalet on your favorite slope: La Verte (Green), Le Diebold (Blue) or La Piste OK de Le Coupe du Monde (Red).
It also offers direct ski-in/ski-out access to Val d'lsère's fastest lift (Le Funival) or its newest lift (La Daille Express).