The latest from the infamous “Experimental Group”, founded by Olivier Bon, Pierre-Charles Cros and Romée De Goriainoff, is the retro-cool boutique hotel in the Swiss Alps called Experimental Chalet.
As the group brought super cool cocktail bars to Paris, London and New York, they also readily diversified into equally stylish hotels, one of which I was very happy to stay in!
Experimental Chalet just opened its doors at the end of last year. The original 1950s building is hard to miss – whitewashed, with Swiss flag-red shutters and situated right at the heart of the Verbier village.
A minimalist art-deco inspired style was created by Milanese architect Fabrizio Casiraghi. The hotel offers a selection of 39 rooms and suites, some with terrace, jacuzzi and of course panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine peaks and Mont Blanc.
As you enter the hotel, there is no lobby as such– instead, you walk right into the stylish restaurant, with a sunken seating area, pistachio-green panelling and a large fireplace.
The restaurant is headed by the acclaimed French chef Gregory Marchand. Delicious contemporary dishes, like the trout tartar and cod in specially prepared broccoli sauce, give a welcome break to heavier more traditional Swiss Alpine cuisine.
For families, the menu offers a selection of freshly made dishes with kids in mind , such as pasta.
Breakfast, one of Marchand’s specialities, is given special care, with house-made granolas, sweet and savory cakes, waffles, egg dishes, fresh juices, and a full complement of viennoiserie.
If you get tired of doing the ski runs every day, the cosy little spa here is great! There are three treatment rooms offering Biologique Recherche facials and massages, plus a hammam, steam room and a solarium.
And if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, did I mention that the legendary nightclub, the Farm Club, is just next door?! An ideal hideaway for “après-ski” get-togethers with a selection of great cocktails and world-famous DJs , just don’t forget to arrange a babysitter in advance !
Book your stay now at www.experimentalchalet.com
