Clarian Chalets Undertakes Chalet Renovation Of Traditional Savoyard Farmhouse In Chatel

La Grange au Merle by Clarian Chalets is a luxury chalet in the heart of Chatel that has been through an extensive renovation project, taking this traditional Savoyard farmhouse and turning it into one of the resorts finest chalets.

A traditional farm chalet in the vast Portes du Soleil ski area, La Grange au Merle was completely renovated for the winter season of 2016/17.  The chalet's new design welcomes guests into a retreat full of warmth, comfort and style set in traditional Savoyard character.

Using much of the original wood, combined with timber brought in from a Latvian barn, the 6 bedroom (5 ensuite) property sleeps up to 15 people across 4 floors including a mezzanine level and is heading into its second winter following a year of renovation by the owners, Clare and Iain Galloway.

The open plan living area extends to views across the valley in its elevated position above Chatel, yet just five minutes walk from the centre. There’s also a TV snug, library, sauna and hot-tub as well as the chalets own wine caves, where tasting sessions with the regions own wines and beyond are regularly held.

Clare Galloway, co-owner and founder of Clarian Chalets said: “La Grange au Merle is a very special chalet and the response we’ve had so far has been amazing. We wanted to create a place that feels relaxed, informal and homely with an exceptional attention to detail and quality of service that we know our guests expect. From the food to the wine to the hot tub and special surprises for both adults and children, we’re proud to open our doors after so much hard work and invite guests to the wonderful resort of Chatel”.

Chalet staff include full-time professional chef, chalet manager and chauffeur

The chalet's original charm and ambiance is retained throughout, maintaining La Grange au Merle's authentic atmosphere.

The first floor is the heart of the chalet, with a south facing and open plan living space.

Each of the five bedrooms have access to an en-suite bathroom. All open on to the southerly balcony or a garden terrace with the exception of the mezzanine bedroom which sits beside the library and children's den.

A dedicated TV snug is home to a large television with a selection of DVDs, games, toys and craft supplies. On the mezzanine a library offers a peaceful space to select a book or magazine and access the internet.

For relaxation after a hard day on the slopes soak in the outdoor hot-tub, unwind in the sauna or indulge in a massage. For those wishing outdoor fun, gardens surround the chalet with an alpine playhouse, ‘Crystal de Neige’, being irresistible to those with a sense of play and imagination. Along with spacious accommodation over four floors and garden, there is also a convenient covered garage for two cars located beside the property.

The ski resort of Chatel sits close to the French-Swiss border in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski region, one of the world’s largest interconnected winter sports areas. The traditional town still has the feel of an old farming community, but with the modern ski lift infrastructure that takes skiers and snowboarders directly into the system, linking with Avoriaz, Morgins and beyond to Morzine and Les Gets.