After

After
a solid hour of scaling an icy, narrow mountain pass, we
begin to wonder whether a parachute entrance might’ve been quicker.
“We’re 2,300m above sea level,” our driver points out, while calmly
navigating what can only be described as a hair-raising blizzard.
Val Thorens – the highest mountain village in Europe – is one of the most
prestigious ski destinations in the French Alps; ergo, the world.
Offering adventurers 68 pristine, powder-white runs and a standout
après scene, this small but sparkly resort might just be our top
choice for a wintry weekend.

The recently renovated Le Fitz Roy is located in the heart of
town, just a ski’s throw from the lifts that will whizz you around
Les Trois Vallées. A striking addition to the Beaumier Hotels
portfolio, the 72-key stay distils the very essence of alpine chic,
with seriously snug guest rooms, a state-of-the-art spa,
destination bar and restaurant, ski shop and library.

The snow-blanketed front doors of Le Fitz Roy, left, and a
seriously snug corner of the library.

Stepping inside, one of the first details we notice, aside from
the welcome warmth that kisses our frosty nose, is the ski-themed
abstract art. We later learn that all artworks throughout the
property, from living quarters to restrooms, are by local artists.
We slow down to admire a 70s piste map; a vintage ski magazine
cover; a framed print of some legendary downhill hero… There’s
something remarkably beautiful about this visual celebration of the
surrounding landscape.

After being handed a latte and ski locker pass, we steer away
from the lobby to discover unparalleled mountain views. It’s the
hour in the day when the peaks are washed in a peachy colour,
flocks of flushed faces are returning back to base and hot toddies
are being whipped up by the dozen. We pause to take in what a
terrific people-watching den the dining space is – unaware of the
vistas that awaited in the bedroom.

Scenic mountain views admired from a bedroom balcony, plus a
chic suite corner.

Rooms

There are seven different room types to choose from, spanning
family rooms to two-floor suites. Ours, a junior suite, in a prime
slope-facing position, saw us resting in a king-sized bed topped
with a mattress so comfortable, with just the right level of
firmness, that we found ourselves peeling back the sheets to note
the label. The wardrobe space is big enough that we could’ve
brought an extra carry-on and still had room for more, with warm
spotlights that greet you as you open the wicker doors. Every inch
of the room’s design – courtesy of the visionaries at New
York-based Charles & Co – has been executed with the ultimate
level of comfort in mind. We loved the sliding door that allowed us
to separate snoozing from chilling. The living space comes equipped
with a plush armchair, slouchy sofa, fluffy blankets, a mini-fridge
stocked with the good stuff and a projector that allows you to
stream your favourite titles. The bathroom is a space that makes
getting glam that little bit more fun, thanks to the luxury-label
toiletries, jewel-toned marble and glitzy gold fixtures.

What’s for breakfast?

Providing the correct fuel for a day spent tearing down the
slopes is a task these guys take seriously. Start by grabbing a
fresh-pressed juice – we loved the pear concoction, but saw the
orange and mango replenished more often than we thought possible.
Then, make headway for the granola, where dried fruits (or sweet
treats) can be chucked in the mix if you wish. Hot dishes are
available to order for those brave enough to go in hard with a full
English before hitting the piste. The pastry tray is hard to avoid.
After a buttery croissant, you might be tempted to stuff madeleines
and slices of lemon cake in your pocket.

The stylish, light-filled dining space and a snapshot of the
delicious food.

How about lunch and dinner?

Murano glass light fixtures, chairs in soft-touch fabrics and
ceramics you wish you had in your own house make for an attractive
dining spot. Headed up by chef Jonas Noël, a sustainable and
locally sourced menu delivers the goods. Starters include marinated
beetroot, pumpkin soup, and beer tartare with cabbage and
hazelnuts, while mains are exactly the kind of stuff you crave on a
cold winter’s day. Our order? The lentil stew with a side of
chickpea fries. As for the cheese, we’ll let you discover the magic
of that over the fondue machine.

Is there a bar?

Yep, Le Roy Bar is adjacent to the restaurant. We enjoyed a
classic mojito, but witnessed big love for the signature cocktail
le merengue – a combination of passion fruit- and vodka-infused
greatness with toasted egg white.

Amenities

The subterranean spa features a swimming pool framed with deck
chairs, an old-school sauna and a hammam that hits just the right
level of steam. During our visit, we enjoyed an alpine massage – a
treatment specially crafted to nurse aching muscles through a
combination of stretching, breathing exercises, kneading and
fragrant oils you choose yourself. If that doesn’t do the job, a
Theragun can be delivered to your door on request.

How about their eco-credentials?

The sort that would put a smile on Sir David Attenborough’s
face. We’re talking climate-conscious menus, eco-friendly products,
no single-use plastics and a housekeeping service that leaves the
ball firmly in your court.

What about accessibility?

Tip-top. Three bedrooms are converted for those with mobility
issues, and there are two spacious lifts on hand to take you from
bar to bed, or vice versa – we’re not judging.

What’s the crowd like?

That lot you table danced with, post-piste? You’ll rub shoulders
with them at the breakfast buffet, too. We spotted lots of best
pals on tour, plus the odd loved-up couple. Kids and dogs are
welcome.

Things I should know

There’s an in-house boutique that allows skiers and snowboarders
to hire all the (stylish) essentials, from helmets and gaiters to
poles and goggles. But that’s not all. Downstairs, a ski room is
kitted out with lockers that have inbuilt boot warmers – making
buckling up your boots a joy. Both spaces are within walking
distance of the slopes.

Within a short walk I can find…

Every Tuesday and Thursday, pin-stripped kiosks bless the Grand
Rue with fresh local produce. Grab a paper bag and get to work on
the cheese counter, where wheels of raclette, slices of beaufort
and creamy Reblochon await. There are a fair few craft stalls
offering handcrafted jewellery, too.

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