Grand Maison

Morzine Montriond, France
Sleeps 16 + 4 guests in 8 en suite bedrooms and a bunk room
LUXURY LIVING IN AN HISTORIC SETTING

Comprising La Maison and the adjoining Owner's Residence, Grande Maison is perfect for larger groups looking for a luxury alpine stay with no compromises. "It had to be special. It had to be unique." That was the sentiment of the owners of La Maison de Montriond having ruled out countless opportunities across Europe and North America before deciding to create this exceptional mountain home.
"In Montriond, we finally found what we had been searching for; a beautiful and grand old property dating back to 1749. It was the original 'town house' being located in the main village square adjacent to the Maison de Ville and Eglise de Montriond. It had been in the same French family for at least six generations. Even at first sight we thought it was beautiful" recounts the owner… "it was obviously a traditional Savoie property but also had some fascinating Italianate features. But it lay almost derelict, with just the faintest whisper that it once was, and could again, be something truly special".

What they have created really is just that; special and unique. An exceptional town house in the mountains, a home quite like no other. La Maison manages to seamlessly blend all that is good about a traditional ski chalet with the magical design inspiration of a grand residence from a bygone era. Luxurious but incredibly tasteful throughout, there are six spacious en suite bedrooms, an impressive spa and the most incredible living space set out on the top floor under the beauty of the exposed timber structure.
Local professionals and artisans were used to ensure the history of the building wasn't lost. The project was led by locally-renowned architect Herve Marullaz of Marullaz Architects in collaboration with Kyles Garrett of Shep & Kyles Design.

The restoration project began in the summer of 2017.The external facade was restored to be in harmony with its 18 century roots. The property had originally been designed by an Italian architect during the reign of Louis XV. A key point of inspiration was the juliet balcony which was lovingly restored and replaced in situ framing a truly relaxing and opulent French boudoir that now connects two of the bedrooms. The original timbers were retained wherever possible with local artisans seamlessly incorporating them to the new structure.

"Inside, we had a huge volume of space to use, a blank canvas, which was incredibly exciting. Being fortunate to have stayed in some amazing chalets and hotels around the world we felt we understood what it would take to deliver the ultimate Alpine retreat. The aspiration was to deliver the most comfortable, luxury living experience including a spa, pool, fitness studio, a professional open plan kitchen, sumptuous dining area, relaxing lounges and a cinema snug. The bedrooms needed to be cosy but with excellent modern en-suite facilities. We wanted all the rooms and spaces to flow from a central space which had the grandeur of the world's most luxurious hotels."

To achieve this there is a feature staircase at the heart of the building which was hewn from 370 million year old sedimentary Caithness stone from the Northern Highlands of Scotland.

"Being Scottish we were keen to blend the historical association between France and Scotland, but were also keen to avoid the stereotypes of tartan, Savoyard skins and red hearts."

The Scottish connection also extends to the unique furniture commissioned from Scottish design houses and bespoke soft furnishing fabrics supplied from Glasgow-based Timorous Beasties. The result, the most opulent, comfortable, warm and welcoming atmosphere in a completely unique setting. Welcome, to La Maison.

EXCLUSIVE SERVICE

You will be looked after by a larger chalet team which also includes a Senior Host to support the Chalet Manager ensuring that a detailed and personal service can be provided. The chalets will typically be staffed throughout the day and you can expect the senior members of the team to have considerable experience.

An additional vehicle is provided at peak times, meaning that your whole group can travel at the same time, or even to separate locations if needed. This is an invaluable luxury for groups of 9 or more who would otherwise have to shuttle in a single vehicle.

In the kitchen our most senior chefs will be working to create exquisite menus tailored to your group. At this level we look for chefs to have a broad experience of catering, both in top restaurants but also private homes, villas, yachts and of course, luxury ski chalets. Alongside gourmet menus, you will also have access to an extended list of premium wines.

You will receive a priority concierge service ahead of your stay and a personalised welcome pack at the start of what we aim to be, your dream ski holiday.

HIGHLIGHTS

The top floor of La Maison is a vast open-plan space the sheer size of which immediately takes your breath away. The space is split into three distinct zones — the main salon area, the library and the bar area. The salon features a large chandelier by Brand van Egmond and bespoke luxury sofas from William Yeoward which are orientated to take in the beautiful views of the Nantaux peak. Beyond the salon the library offers a level of privacy from the main space, with several comfortable armchairs and a swing set by the first of two fireplaces. On the opposite side you will find the bar area laid out in a lounge style around the second fireplace. A full sized pool table provides a point of entertainment and another balcony provides a great vantage point to relax and take in the views over the village square.
LAYOUT
  • Bedroom 1 – Super king/twin beds, en suite shower room with twin basins and walk-in wardrobe
  • Bedroom 2 – Super king/twin beds, en suite shower room with twin basins
  • Hammam (H)
  • Swimming pool (P)
  • Hot tub (HT)
  • Boot room with boot warmers (B)
  • Snug with large screen TV (S)
  • Garage (G)
Whats included
Exclusive Catered service plan is a truly indulgent offering with the experience being akin to staying in a luxury hotel and dining out at your favourite restaurant. Your team will typically be made up of our most experienced staff and will include a highly trained professional Chef, a House Manager and several Hosts. The Manager and Hosts will lead most aspects of service during your stay, leaving you to sit back and simply enjoy the comfort of your luxury property.

Dining is a major part of the experience and this is started each day with The Breakfast Club, our signature breakfast offering which takes inspiration from the best brunch spots in the city. Access to the lifts and other resort facilities is simple with a private driving service being provided by your team. When you return from the slopes you'll be able to enjoy afternoon tea and later canapes are served to kick off the evening. A dining plan will be discussed and tailored for your group ahead of your stay but typically we would recommend a mixture of elaborate and more relaxed evenings during the week. You can also choose to experience Kaiseki, our press-acclaimed Japanese fine dining menu.

A comprehensive drinks selection including a house Champagne, at least 10 house wines, artisan beers and speciality gins are also there for you to enjoy throughout your stay.



STAFFING & SERVICE
  • Professional and highly experienced team made up of 7 to 8 staff which will typically include a House Manager, professional Chef, Assistant Manager and four Chalet Hosts
  • Driving service in luxury vehicle(s) from 08:00 to 22:30 every day, with two vehicles provided during peak hours if your group is more than 8 people1 – a later pick up can be arranged on the chef's nights off
  • Daily housekeeping and hosting service throughout your stay, with a midweek towel change
  • Luxury bathroom products from Bamford
DINING
  • The Breakfast Club is our signature menu to start the day offering a selection of hot dishes and delicious continental options – breakfast is served every day2
  • Sweet and savoury tarts from an artisan pâtisserie served on your return to the chalet each day
  • Luxury dining from your professional Chef on 5 evenings which typically we would recommend includes3:
    • Kaiseki – our exquisite 6-course Japanese fine dining restaurant experience
    • Three gourmet dinners – designed just for your group
    • One relaxed evening taking inspiration from our Taste menus
  • Children's early supper served on 5 evenings (if required)
  • Fresh fruit bowl replenished throughout the week
  • Pre-arrival menu consultation to customise your dining experience
BEVERAGE
  • Champagne reception and served throughout the week on-demand
  • Selection of at least 10 house wines available throughout your stay
  • Spirits bar with speciality gins
  • Signature cocktail list curated in-house
  • Craft beers and European lager
1. Driving services are subject to fair usage – the specification of the second vehicle may vary from the primary vehicle. 2. A reduced menu is offered on the chef's days off. 3. The chefs are trained to cater for basic dietary requirements – larger groups with a wide variety of requirements are encouraged to discuss this at the point of booking. 4. Services are booked on the client's behalf directly with the supplier – additional costs will apply.
Prices and availability
Grande Maison is located right in the middle of the village square in Montriond which is part of the Morzine ski resort. The village itself has a handful of shops as well as two bars and a restaurant. It is a short drive into the main centre of Morzine where you will find a vast array of shopping and restaurant options. Skiing is most easily accessed by the Ardent lift which is just a 10-minute drive away and grants access straight into the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area. On route you will also pass the breathtaking Lac de Montriond where you can ice dive in the winter, or bathe come summer.