We all know that hotels and chalets have upped their standards to create foodie experiences; guests now get the opportunity to take cookery classes, go out with the chef and source their own truffles, pick their own fruit and veg and, in some cases, receive a certificate about it for bragging rights back home. Foodies seem to be the new socialites enabling them to eat and drink and experience the in place and in food all at once. Below are my top three Alpine foodie chalets:
Marco Polo in Val dIsere, France
Winner of Frances Best Ski Chalet award, this is one of the most spectacular chalets I have stepped foot in, from the gold leaf tiles around the swimming pool and a mosaic designed by Christian Lacroix to the secret underground hideaway where guests will find the rarest wines and sample the best cheeses and charcuterie. The chef, who I have had the personal privilege of working alongside is one of the best in the Alps. Quite an apt matching. Marco Polo is described as a unique experience of sensations and a sophistication at a level never before attained this could be a review of the food only, but all come on equal levels in this chalet. Reach for the stars and you may just get the idea. Dining here is the rarest of pleasures and one to savour.
Chalet Linfa in the Dolomites, Italy
This chalet offers a unique concept that is designed to revitalize you, a breath of fresh air while you are looked after by its dedicated and charming hosts. This chalet has the utmost in personal touches, the owners are very passionate about the whole concept of the chalet and continue day to day to meet their guests and create their dream. Guests have the option of enjoying the owners delicious local specialities, many ingredients sourced from the surrounding mountains where you can join on the search for truffle or mushrooms to accompany your evening meal. Dine in this chalet and you can expect a feast of the palate and of the senses accompanied by fine wines from South Tyrol and beyond.
Zermatt Loft in Zermatt, Switzerland
A property featured in The Times 20 most stylish chalets in Europe this season… and with style, comes service and with service, food prepared to Michelin standard. This season Zermatt loft have collaborated with two Michelin star chef Michael Caines, MBE, Head Chef at Gidleigh Park and voted as Britains top restaurant by the Times readers. Michael has designed menus and spent time working alongside the chef in Zermatt Loft to ensure that our Foodie guests are wowed and taste buds tingled by each evening meal presented. Guests could see warm pigeon salad, apple, hazelnut and roasted foie gras to start followed by honey roast duckling, cabbage, smoked bacon, turnip, roast garlic and a spiced just for main and caramel and cardamom parfait, milk chocolate mousse with nougatine and a cardamom foam for dessert.
