Brummell Recommends: Étoile du Nord

Stylish and luxurious, discover the most anticipated Alpine chalet to open recently in Val-d’lsère

Travel and Wellbeing 15 Jan 2024

Étoile du Nord (Photograph by Yves Garneau)

Étoile du Nord (Photograph by Yves Garneau)

After a decade of intricate planning and construction, Étoile du Nord is the latest luxury chalet to join Haute Montagne’s “super yachts in the snow” portfolio. Winner of the World’s Best New Ski Chalet 2023, Étoile du Nord is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious chalets to stay in on your winter vacation. Located in the heart of Val-d’lsère, one of France’s most revered ski destinations, the property has unobstructed views of the mountains that are guaranteed to leave you speechless.

The property looks onto spectacular mountain views (Photograph by Philipe Vile)
The property looks onto spectacular mountain views (Photograph by Philipe Vile)

Upon arrival you enter through a James Bond-esque private tunnel driveway to Étoile du Nord; two magnificent adjoining chalets (East Wing and West Wing) covering an impressive 1,410m² of space and totalling five floors. Manuel Nogueira, founding director of the prestigious architectural firm AndArchitects, has used contemporary design practices to redefine the traditional chalet. From lounges with double-height ceilings and grand window façades, to the open-plan first-floors with high-spec kitchens and lavish dining areas, the property is a truly breathtaking, one-of-a-kind Alpine chalet.

Étoile du Nord consists of five floors of 007-esque luxury in which to bask (Photograph by Philipe Vile)
Étoile du Nord consists of five floors of 007-esque luxury in which to bask (Photograph by Philipe Vile)

Nogueira says: ‘The approach from the outset was to focus on using more light and on the framing of the views of the surrounding mountains. Traditionally, chalets have big timber beams and feel generally dark and heavy inside. Having large windows which create a more contemporary approach is balanced with a vernacular form and traditional timber.’

The approach to the property's design prioritised considerations of light and of the framing of surrounding mountain views (Photograph by Yves Garneau)
The approach to the property’s design prioritised considerations of light and of the framing of surrounding mountain views (Photograph by Yves Garneau)

Sleeping up to 14 guests, the East Wing has seven bedrooms and there are six bedrooms in the West Wing. Each bedroom has a rural-chic style with an exquisite marble en suite and elegant wooden furnishings crafted by the best local artisans.

Each bedroom comes with an exquisite marble en suite (Photograph by Philipe Vile)
Each bedroom comes with an exquisite marble en suite (Photograph by Philipe Vile)

Your stay will definitely be one of relaxation, where you can escape the busy modern world. After a day out on the slopes, guests can enjoy a soak in the hot tub or go for a dip in the indoor/outdoor pools – your choice. A range of wellness facilities are available, including a sauna, steam rooms, a gym and luxurious treatments at the in-house spa. The spa’s specialist therapists can help alleviate physical tension with massages personalised to your needs.

The indoor pool (Photograph by Philipe Vile)
The indoor pool (Photograph by Philipe Vile)

Evenings at the chalet start with gourmet feasts prepared by a professional chef. Guests can design their menus, leaving nothing to be desired, ranging from delicious canapés to a seven-course meal paired with wines from renowned local suppliers. As the night goes on there are private cinemas to wind down and enjoy a film in or alternatively there are game rooms where the party and entertainment can continue.

What makes your time at Étoile du Nord an unforgettable experience, however, is not just the stand-out facilities it has to offer, but the impeccable 24-hour concierge service. The team at the chalet is devoted to ensuring that guests have the best holiday, creating tailored services based upon guest requests. The property also includes a chauffeur, who will be on-call to drive you to the slopes, town centre or airport between the hours of 8am and 1am. Pre-arrival, the team can also organise various things for you to make sure your holiday exceeds your expectations – from hiring ski equipment and instructors to arranging mountain walks with a private guide or helicopter tours.

Étoile du Nord is in a great location in the exclusive Petit Alaska area of Val-d’Isère. Here, you are just a two-minute drive from a world-class ski resort including several superb après bars, ideal for pre-dinner cocktails. It is also a 10-minute walk or three-minute drive from the town centre, where you can explore the local shops, cafés and restaurants.

Discover more about Étoile du Nord here: hautemontagne.com/chalets