Chalet Iona

A haven of peace in the heart of the French Alps

Sleeps 12 + 3

Set in its own secluded orchards where the authentic hamlet of Le Villard gives way to thick mountain forest, Chalet Iona’s remarkable sense of space, peace, and comfort makes it a one-of-a-kind summer retreat. It is blessed with breathtaking views across 13 pretty villages and settlements, stretching towards the Vanoise National Park and the magnificent Grand Bec mountain rising 3400 metres to the east, and silence here is broken only by birdsong and the chiming of cow bells.

The property comprises 2 buildings; the main chalet, completely renovated in 2017 to an exceptional standard, sleeps 12 in its two master bedrooms and 4 twin or double guest rooms. Each bedroom has its own unique style, be it art deco or Biedermeier furniture, or reflecting the seasons or the passions of the owner’s family, and each with its own bath or shower room. Next-door and with the same lovely views is the picture-postcard Chalet India, which sleeps 2-3 guests.

The chalet’s spectacular top floor features a stunning, modern open plan kitchen, a dramatic suspended fireplace, and an enormous hand-made oak dining table close to the floor-to-ceiling windows, which afford panoramic views and create a sense of harmony with the outdoor space beyond. Stairs lead down to an elegant sitting room with a cinema area, reading corners with board games, and doors opening up onto the terrace.

It’s unlikely you’ll be able to tear yourself from the chalet’s idyllic gardens, however, where deer graze in nearby meadows as you soak in the private hot tub, and three barbecue areas and sun decks provide space for unhurried breakfasts in the morning sun. Children will love the swings and treehouse, where they can play surrounded by apple, pear, plum and cherry trees and old carts from the last century.

• Impossibly quaint location, surrounded by fruit trees, crumbling outbuildings and the ancient village bread oven
• Arguably the best views in the Méribel Valley from the enormous dining room
• Multiple barbecue areas, sun decks, and an outdoor hot tub

Layout

Purple Summer concierge

We understand that organising a luxury holiday isn’t just about finding the perfect villa or chalet. It’s about the professional dedicated staff, the magnificent food and wine, and all the thoughtful extra touches which make your holiday truly memorable.

Our small and select portfolio is exclusive to us, and located in only a handful of destinations we know inside-out and are immensely passionate about. The Purple Summer team will be with you every step of the way, from the moment you book your holiday and start to organise the finer details, to your arrival at the villa or chalet where you’ll receive dedicated support from our in-resort team should you need anything arranging during your stay.

We will take care of everything, from the essentials such as private airport transfers, professional childcare, chauffeured minibus service and restaurant reservations – to the unique experiences which make your holiday extra special. Are you celebrating a birthday or anniversary during your stay? We’ll gladly organise live music or a cocktail evening in the privacy of your villa or chalet, or a face-painting party for your children. Or why not make your holiday one to remember with a vineyard tour, paragliding over the Alps, a guided hiking or e-bike tour in the mountains? Whatever you’d like to do, we are ideally placed to recommend the best local operators and make any reservations on your behalf, so all that’s left for you to do is relax and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.

Location

The chalet is a 5 minute drive from Les Allues village, approximately an hour away from the beautiful town of Annecy and the historic town of Chambery. Lyon and Geneva airports are just over 2 hours away by car.