The Alps are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. They're more famous than the mountain that holds the world heritage site, Macchu Picchu, which should give you an indication of just how opulent these mountains are. The interesting thing about them is that they're made up of a range of mountains, that span eight countries, Monaco, France, Switzerland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria and Slovenia. The two countries that are most famous for their parts of the Alps have to be France and Switzerland, however, Austria comes in a close third.
This article aims to shed light on some of the stunning holiday destinations that you can visit that are along the 1200 km spread of mountain range, which is luxurious by nature, due to the limited accessibility but also for the activities, such as skiing, that you can partake in.
Before diving into the top luxurious destinations in the Alps, you need to take a moment to reflect as to why you want to go. For many, it's to be able to say that they've seen this stunning mountain range. For others, it's because these mountains hold some of the best skiing routes and for some, it's the feel of pure luxury and 'getaway' that they get the moment they enter one of the towns that line the mountain.
To be fair, does someone need a reason to go to the Alps? Not at all – saying that you wanted to go simply to be in awe would be a good enough answer for sure.
First, starting with the French Alps, the main destination that is known for luxury is Châtel. In fact, it is so ultra luxurious that it doesn't even make sense to bring in any other town because this is where dreams start and end – it is perfection.
Nestled in a little valley, this village is wonderful to visit all year round, however, most enjoy coming in the winter and you'll soon find out why. During the warmer months, you can enjoy a splendor of green around you, as there are mountains and fields for ages. There is also a stunning lake that you can swim or paddle in, making for the ultimate moment of refreshment. When the cooler months come and especially in the winter, this village receives a lot of snowfall, making it ideal for skiers, which is why it is also known as a ski town.
Can you imagine just how beautiful this town is, especially in the winter months when all the wooden houses are covered in layers of snow? In a town this small, you must book well ahead of time to get your accommodation. The beautiful thing about Châtel is that it has some of the most luxurious accommodations that you can rent, that are stylish and yet also traditional in design, have excellent views over the village and even come with private chefs if you're willing to go that far. After all, who needs to cook when they're staring at the French Alps with a Glühwein watching the sunset?
Five names come to mind when you think of luxury in the Swiss Alps and that's Heremence, Zinal, Nendaz, Veysonnaz and Les Masses. If you told anyone who knows anything about Switzerland that you're going to be visiting or even staying at one of these villages, they would be head over heels because this is where the elite come to enjoy luxury.
All five of these areas are little villages that come alive in the winter as they're all known for their ski resorts. Although, don't be fooled, they are just as beautiful during the warmer months, however, you can participate in more activities during the winter with the winter sports.
Speaking of activities, you want to get into this as these villages are known for their excellent cuisine and if you're lucky, you might even get to enjoy something local, such as a 'knödel', which is a little bit more famous in Austria, however, the Swiss one does the trick too. These villages know they cater to an elite clientele and therefore they also have many fine dining options for you to pick from, as well as traditional options.
Just the same as in Châtel, finding accommodation is mainly reserved for those who live there year-round, booked years ago or who can afford the cream of the crop. And when the cream of the crop is said, that is truly what is meant as some of the most exquisite winter houses can be found in villages like Zinal and Les Masses.
Although you may not be able to pick up just how luxurious these villages are, just think of a small village, that is directly on the foot of one of the most majestic mountain ranges in the world, that is covered in snow for only a few months per year and then perhaps you will start to understand just how special it is to visit.
If the Alps are something that you want to see in your lifetime, then visiting one of the above-mentioned towns is a grand idea as you will have access to some of the most spectacular sights in the world. Plus, you get to partake in some fun skiing, which is always a plus.
