When planning a ski holiday, one of the biggest decisions is where to stay. Among all the options available, the catered chalet remains a firm favourite for skiers and snowboarders who want a relaxing, comfortable, and memorable break in the mountains. But what exactly is a luxury catered chalet val thorens, and why does it appeal to so many snow lovers every year?

What is a catered chalet?

A catered chalet is a private mountain lodge where meals and housekeeping are taken care of for you. In simple terms, you book a chalet in a ski resort and your stay includes breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner prepared by a dedicated host or chef. Many also offer wine with dinner and some include extra touches such as canapés or local delicacies.

Catered chalets come in all shapes and sizes. Some are traditional wooden lodges full of alpine charm, while others are sleek and modern with floor-to-ceiling windows, hot tubs, saunas and cinema rooms. You can find small cosy chalets for six guests or large luxurious properties that sleep twenty or more.

What does a typical day look like in a catered chalet?

One of the best things about a catered chalet is that your day starts with a hearty breakfast cooked just for you. This might include fresh pastries, eggs, fruit, yoghurt and plenty of tea and coffee to fuel you for the slopes.

After skiing, you return to the warmth of the chalet where afternoon tea awaits. There is usually freshly baked cake or biscuits alongside hot drinks, perfect for warming up and sharing stories about your day on the mountain.

In the evening, dinner is often the highlight. Many catered chalets offer three or four courses, carefully prepared by a trained chef or experienced host. The food is often inspired by local produce and traditional recipes but always tailored to your group’s tastes. Some chalets even pair dinner with selected wines or offer an honesty bar for extra drinks.

What other services are included?

Good catered chalets do much more than just provide meals. Housekeeping is usually included, so you will find your living spaces tidy and your beds made. Some chalets arrange ski passes, equipment hire or lessons for you, and many have staff who know the resort well and can share tips on the best slopes or après-ski spots.

Luxury catered chalets may include chauffeur services to take you to and from the lifts, private wellness areas with hot tubs or saunas, in-house massage treatments, and even childcare. Some have partnerships with ski schools or guides so you can book everything easily through your chalet host.

Why choose a catered chalet?

Skiing is an active holiday, so having your meals and chores taken care of is a real luxury. A catered chalet gives you more time to relax, spend time with friends and family, and make the most of the mountains. You do not need to worry about finding a restaurant each night or queuing at busy supermarkets when you would rather be enjoying the scenery.

For families, a catered chalet can make things much easier. Many chalets offer early children’s meals, so little ones can eat before bedtime while adults enjoy a more leisurely dinner later. Hosts are often experienced at welcoming children and can help make your family holiday stress-free.

Catered chalets also create a warm, sociable atmosphere that you do not always find in hotels. Many groups book the whole chalet for themselves, which makes it feel like a private alpine home. For smaller groups or couples, sharing a larger chalet with other guests can be a fun way to meet new people over dinner or drinks by the fire.

Who is a catered chalet best for?

The beauty of a catered chalet is that there really is something for everyone. Groups of friends love having their own private space where they can come and go as they please. Families appreciate the convenience and the extra help with children’s meals and daily routines. Couples enjoy the cosy setting and personal service that make a ski holiday feel truly special.

Whether you prefer simple and traditional or lavish and luxurious, there is a catered chalet to suit every budget. From affordable family-run chalets to five-star mountain retreats with spa facilities and gourmet dining, the choice is vast.

Should you try one?

If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding and want to make your holiday as relaxing as possible, a catered chalet is well worth considering. The combination of delicious food, warm hospitality and the freedom to focus entirely on the slopes makes it a favourite for so many snow lovers.

Once you have experienced a week where everything is taken care of for you, it can be hard to go back to self-catering or busy hotels. For many, the catered chalet is not just accommodation, it is a big part of what makes a ski holiday special.

So when you next plan a trip to the mountains, why not look at a catered chalet? You might find it becomes your new favourite way to ski.