Hello Monaco #08 Winter 2019–2020 HM 2019 #08_web | Page 81

TRAVEL EXPERT T he impressive fate of this little rural village proudly facing Mont Blanc is owed to the fancy of a great lady, Baroness Noémie de Rothschild. In the early 19th century, its first cli- ents were conquered by the purity of its air and the beauty of its panorama. Back then, the attendance rate was far from anticipating Megève’s rapid rise in popularity. In 1916, however, this French win- ter resort, commissioned by the Baroness, was designed to compete with St. Moritz. And the bet was quickly won! Over the years, Megève has emerged as «the place to be», a Saint-Tropez in the snow. Just an hour away from Geneva, this resort is famous for its grand New Year festivities. On top of its 400 kilometres of slopes, Megève invites you to celebrate its many festive events, offering all kinds of entertain- ment. Take a carriage ride through its poetic cobbled streets, enjoy the Mont Blanc panorama, dog sled races and a reindeer farm... All this, in a magical atmosphere lit by Christmas lights, with an enor- mous fir tree set up in the heart of the village. Gourmet groceries and restaurants, designer boutiques and art galleries complement this magical and colourful painting against a white background. HOTELS CATERING TO EVERY TASTE T he selection of hotels in Megève is large and diverse. You will easily find accommodation catering to every taste. This is a list of particularly welcoming destinations. «LE GAI SOLEIL», A HAPPY FAMILY STAY T his hotel is located just a stone’s throw away from the ski school and ski lifts. Its twenty rooms convey a traditional mountain vibe with all the modern comfort. Families will find its warm atmosphere particularly enchanting. «CŒUR DE MEGÈVE», RIGHT IN THE MIDST OF A PARTY T  343 Rue du Crêt du Midi.  (+33) 4 5021 0070 he hotel is set right in the village centre, overlooking the roof- tops, mountains, shops and a torrent gurgling through its al- leys. This is a chic place with an original and refined interior. Its suites and rooms offer you exceptional comfort, cozy lounges and a designer bar. «LES CHALETS DU MONT D’ARBOIS», AT ONE WITH NATURE T  447 Chemin de la Rocaille.  (+33)4 5021 2503  44 Rue Charles Feige.  (+33) 4 5021 2530 «Cœur de Megève» is a great destination for city dwellers willing to enjoy nature while still partaking in the festive city atmosphere. This is a happy compromise if you want to enjoy your every pleasure while reading a book by the fire with an exceptional cocktail in hand. An ideal place for New Year celebrations. he opening of «Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois» by the Four Seasons is a highly anticipated event this winter. Following a complete renovation, this classy destination is offering you its superb rooms «at one» with nature. Its restaurant managed by chef Nicolas Hensiger was crowned with a Michelin star. Hello Monaco Winter 2019–2020 / 79 www.hellomonaco.ru