The resort of Megève was developed in the 1950s by the Baroness de Rothschild, who wanted to bring a bit of St Moritz glamour to France. It’s been a regular haunt for the rich, famous and well behaved ever since. The centre is still the traditional, medieval farming village, and development did not cause it to lose its charm or become a tacky nouveau riche playground. It is nowadays renowned for its dining as much as its skiing; there are over 80 restaurants in resort, including some with Michelin stars, and the romantic cobbled centre has upmarket wine bars rather than raucous umbrella bars.
Megève’s wider terrain is named the Evasion Mont Blanc area, which includes the linked villages of Saint Gervais, Saint Nicolas, Combloux and nearby but unlinked Les Contamines. There’s good skiing for all, and despite the relatively low altitude, there can be great off-piste to be had, without a lot of competition. The ski area feels quiet – perhaps everyone is eating. Megève is also a great base if you have a car as you can easily visit any of 13 resorts in the Chamonix Valley.
There are cheaper chalets, and food options on the mountain and in town, so you needn’t be a swish Parisian to ski here. Linked St Gervais is cheaper altogether, and a bit more down-to-earth.
