Résidence Les Grandes Alpes ★★★★

Little La Clusaz is nestled in an Alpine valley, close to the Swiss boarder but still utterly French. These are hills alive with the sound of sheep's bells, and not much else. The town is undeniably pretty, and best of all, hasn't had its small town charm squished under a pile of mega resorts. Its Savoyard churches and traditional town square are watched over by but a few large few fancy hotels, log chalets and a theatrical backdrop of mountains against a clear blue sky. This is a community that has deep roots in an old, slow, bucolic way of life, and one wonders what they make of all this hurtling down mountains with go faster shoes on, which has brought foreigners flocking to this valley. Wandering around the Monday markets, wide eyed with fascination at the beautiful abundant food, sold from stalls and serious conversation, it felt unchanged through time, and I had the impression that by and large the locals remain blissfully unaffected. This is how I like to holiday. On top of being in one of the most authentic ski resorts we chose to stay in serviced apartments rather than a hotel. Residence – Les Grand Alpes **** helped us imagine we had our very own luxurious holiday home in the Alps.

We were a mixed group, those of us who love skiing, those of us who love not skiing, and a few in the middle, like me. I'm able to sway either way depending on the amount of bruises accumulated on the first day. Our apartment was only a few minutes’ walk from the ski lifts in the village. We were also happy to find a good supermarket just below us on the street. The staff that manned the reception were lovely, and organised a food delivery for the night we arrived. They can also organise fresh bread to be delivered daily, but I loved to slip out in the morning and fetch it myself. It's these little things that help you get to know a place more intimately. There was an indoor pool and sauna, both with incredible views of the mountains, the best way to relax muscles after a long day on your feet, and often in contorted poses.

The apartment itself was just gorgeous. With ubiquitous wood and pretty red and white patterned upholstery, it had a warm neo-rustic look. Open plan, it had a well-equipped kitchen, a solid wood dining table, and a comfortable lounge area with flat screen TV. Best of all were the large French windows that lead out to our spacious balcony and let in the amazing view of the village and the mountains. The constant presence of such a vast and beautiful landscape brought a soothing ambiance to the whole apartment. Our en-suite bedroom was also tranquil, with crisp white sheets, pine, white, and faux fur bed covers. I loved the touch of the (fake) sheep skin rug in the bathroom floor. Everything felt cosy and homely, with an understated luxury.

La Clusaz and its Residence – Les Grand Alpes, are the perfect place for a blissfully authentic Alpine holiday.