HOTEL HOTLIST

It's time to hit the slopes - and the interiors of these retreats are as gorgeous as the snow-covered peaks

Le Refuge de Solaise, Val d'Isere, France

IN A SENTENCE

Proudly the highest hotel in France, Le Refuge de Solaise is an upmarket, buzzy property in a converted cable station.

DESIGN HIGHLIGHT

The interiors use exposed stone, rustic wood and tartan textiles to nail the modern Alpine look. But really it's all about the exceptional views, which you can enjoy from every room.

ON THE MENU

With an eclectic range of dishes - from sushi to Savoyard cheese - Le Refuge is a hot lunch spot (choose the terrace for a partyvibe).

DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT

Swimwear. The beautiful spa has a 25m indoor pool.

GOOD TO KNOW

There is no road access during winter; you bubble up the mountain. Ideal if you want ski-in/ski-out access and to explore empty slopes well before the rest of Val finishes breakfast, but it can be rather restrictive once the lift closes and you cannot leave the hotel.

Hotel de Len, Cortina, Italy 

IN A SENTENCE

Just about to open for its first season, Hotel de Len looks set to becomes this region's hottest new spot.

BEHIND THE CONCEPT