Chalet AcalouFrench Alps, Serre Chevalier

Situated in in the French Alps, Chalet Acalou is just a two-minute walk from the highly regarded Serre Chevalier Ski School and ten minutes to the centre of the village. A host of luxuries are at your fingertips, from caves selling fine wines to designer boutiques for retail therapy. La Sale-les-Alpes has some of the best skiing in the region and this particular retreat has year-round activities: soak in natural minerals at the Grand Bains indoor and outdoor thermal baths. You're near the Italian border and this is reflected in the variety of gourmet restaurant options available, as well as quaint bistros and cafes for après-ski.

Your every whim will be catered for in this expansive chalet that adds a contemporary twist to traditional Hautes Alps design with curved beams, exposed stone walls and light-filled enclaves. The four en suite bedrooms are spread across three levels, with the open-plan kitchen and living area occupying the middle floor. This sophisticated abode will suit family holidays or a getaway with friends, with a luxurious amount of space for relaxation and entertaining. Breakfast is delivered daily to the chalet for your convenience and, in the evening, a private chef will prepare a gastronomic feast to your exact specifications. This can be savoured in the elegant dining room or al fresco on the south-facing terrace, with views to the mountains all around.

The slopes are tantalisingly close and the town can be viewed from the chalet, so each minute of your holiday can be dedicated to skiing and bonhomie. A car and driver are yours during your stay for sojourns into Serre Chevalier or to explore neighbouring towns, such as the fortified settlement of Briançon. Wind down after dinner with a digestif in the sauna, or settle down to a film in your state-of-the-art cinema room. Chalet Acalou is a glorious antidote to the nine-to-five – a space designed for utter escapism.