Refuge de la Traye – Méribel, France
High up in the outer limits of the Trois Vallées, tucked away in a clearing amongst the trees, lies the perfect hideaway, combining deluxe alpine living and pure escapism. La Refuge de la Traye is its own little hamlet, with everything you could possibly want for a secluded mountain stay, and a lot more. Classically Savoie in its design, it forms part the landscape, whilst inside it is five star luxury with seamless service.
It’s a haven of peace and quiet, surrounded by nature, with a strong ecological philosophy. Refined, discrete and bijou, the Refuge exudes a sense of wellbeing – with just the mountains and the skies around you and miles from everyday life. It’s a wonderland in winter, and a paradise in the summer.
At A Glance
Boutique Hotel
Why We Love It:
We love this Refuge as it is a really unique place to stay & you feel far removed from reality.Style:
Traditional alpine with a chic twist.Location:
Above Les Allues in the forests of Mèribel within the Three Valleys – accessible only by collection, on foot, or on touring skis.Rooms:
6 rooms & suites.Swimming:
Stunning outdoor infinity pool & outdoor jacuzzi.Children:
This is off grid family enchantment.Ideal For:
Feeling in a world of your own. Perfect for romantic hideaways or family get togethers.Open From:
December - April & Mid June - September.rooms
Each room or suite can be taken privately, or you can book the entire hamlet for exclusive use. All the rooms are exquisitely styled, with the original pine panelling, warm, earthy colours and fabrics, luxurious bathrooms and private terraces looking out across the valley and mountains. The four rooms, Crocus, Marguerite, Gentiane and Violette, are cosy and intimate – perfect for a secluded and romantic weekend. The larger Junior Suite – Orchidée sleeps two adults and can accommodate two children on the sofa bed.
It has magnificent views from its upper floor balcony. For total privacy, the Edelweiss Suite is a separate chalet, built over three floors and sleeping up to four. With a large open fire, and a private Jacuzzi on the terrace looking out over the Trois Vallées, it’s a very special family retreat.
food
The chef Akrame Benallal comes from a long line of venerated chefs, and his love for the mountains and food is evident in every dish he has created for the Refuge. It’s all about ‘la terroir’, and all the produce is fresh, local and seasonal. He combines classic Savoie dishes with creative flair and twists – all resulting in some truly sublime cuisine. A dedicated Chef takes care of any particular wish you may have during your stay.
activities
For a place that is so secluded and at such high altitude, there is a remarkable choice of things to do, and activities on tap. In the winter of course, it’s a haven for keen skiers who will be dropped off to the slopes of a morning and collected when finished, guides can easily be organised to lead you around the mountains. There’s tobogganing, cross country skiing and snow shoeing and all the family can try their hand at biathlon.
When the conditions are right, get a bird’s eye view of the Trois Vallées from a hot air balloon. For a true and authentic Savoyard experience, the ‘Ferme a Fromage’ is an absolute must, just a short walk to the private dinning chalet where traditional Raclette and Fondue are served (from four to twelve persons). Throughout the summer, the mountains are there to be explored and enjoyed. From mountain biking, or golf in the surrounding valley, hiking, tree climbing for kids, archery and yoga, and not forgetting the little Pedagogical farm where you and your children will be able to observe and get close to the animals, the list is wonderfully unlimited. And of course, The Refuge has its own Spa, with some wonderfully organic and traditional treatments – donkey’s milk bath, a hay bed, sauna, hammam, outdoor Jacuzzis, alongside ultra-high-tech wellbeing machines, a gym and yoga room. It’s not hard to relax here. The hamlet also comes complete with a traditional mountain chapel.
family
Fresh mountain air, miles off the beaten track, outdoor activities galore – what isn’t there to like? With the huge range of activities and total seclusion, a stay at the Refuge with your family is a truly special experience and one you’ll remember for years. There’s adventure for all ages everywhere you look.
For inside activities, there’s a children’s playroom with a pinball and pac-man, board games, tv with children’s films and a very comfortable cinema room.
Location
Les Allues, France
Above Les Allues in the forests of Mèribel within the Three Valleys – accessible only by collection, on foot, or on touring skis.
