KCR WINTER 24:25 Magazine FINAL 1 - Flipbook - Page 48
The Lodge, Verbier
An idyllic, traditional wooden chalet, The Lodge, Verbier is located at an
altitude of around 1,500m in the Valais region of south-western Switzerland, around 3 hours by train from Geneva. It’s just a 昀椀ve-minute walk
from the centre of Verbier, and only 250m from the main Medran lift
station.
With its stunning views, 昀椀rst-class amenities, and world-class service,
this mountain hideaway, part of Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited
Edition portfolio, more than lives it to its billing.
The Lodge o昀昀ers a boutique experience, with just nine rooms, including
two grand master suites and seven bespoke double bedrooms. There’s
also a kids’ bunkroom, sleeping 6 children, making it perfect for holidaying with friends and family.
In winter the chalet has to be booked in its entirety, accommodating up
to 18 guests, ideal for groups or families. In summer, and during certain
weeks in the winter, you can book individual rooms.
We stayed on the top 昀氀oor in one of the two master suites. It featured a
centrepiece 昀椀replace, under昀氀oor heating, traditional wooden beams and
private balcony with wonderful mountain views. It was connected to the
other suite by a secret doorway hidden behind a bookcase.
The Super king sized bed was complemented by comfy upholstered sofa
and chairs and there was a fully stocked mini bar. A Nespresso co昀昀ee
machine and kettle are standard and the evening turn-down service
delivered surprises every night. I liked the giant Toblerone.
The large luxurious en-suite bathroom had separate shower and bathtub
and robes and slippers are standard. Add double washbasins and rubber
ducks for the bath.
One of the standout features of The Lodge is its commitment to gourmet
cuisine. Food and drink is all inclusive, with meals crafted by the chalet’s in-house chef.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast of delicious pastries, fruits, cereals,
homemade jams and cooked dishes before heading out for a day in the
mountains.
There’s lunch if you’re staying in and, during the afternoon, guests can
help themselves to slices of homemade cake and hot and cold drinks. Alcoholic drinks are freely available at any time and, in the early evening,
everybody gathers for cocktails and tantalising gourmet snacks.
The open-plan kitchen allows you to watch the culinary team as they
prepare your dinner. It’s served at a large communal dining table where
you get to know your fellow guests. This feature works surprisingly well
but you can also choose to dine in your room if you need privacy.
The set three course menu includes local and international specialities
plus selections from the impressive wine cellar, including 昀椀ne wines
from Switzerland, France, and beyond. Don’t miss out on the additional cheese course as Verbier is famous for its Raclette and other alpine
cheeses.
The Lodge boasts an impressive range of amenities, designed to pamper
guests after a long day on the mountains. The cosy living areas, with
oversized sofas and 昀氀oor-to-ceiling windows, are perfect for relaxation.
In the basement there’s a party room with billiards plus spa, treatment
rooms and gym.
The 9m indoor heated pool is a highlight but there’s also sauna and
indoor and outdoor hot tubs to soothe aching muscles. A range of
relaxing and energising spa treatments are o昀昀ered from vigorous sports
massages to purifying facials.
During the summer months, Verbier transforms into an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. My visit coincides with the Verbier E-Bike Festival
and I take the Rando Gourmande, a 35km ride through the mountains
stopping at 5 di昀昀erent gourmet restaurants.
I’m also due to go para gliding but it’s cancelled because of the weather.
Instead I take a cheese class where I make Raclette and get to take it
home - a far safer alternative. Also on o昀昀er are beautiful scenic walks
through alpine meadows and wine tasting tours of the nearby vineyards.
I enjoyed a warm welcome at The Lodge and am pleased to say it delivers an exclusive luxury experience for travellers seeking both adventure
and indulgence.
The Lodge Verbier www.virginlimitededition.com/the-lodge/
Email: enquiries@virginlimitededition.com
Verbier Info: www.verbier.ch
Verbier E-Bike Festival www.verbierebikefestival.com
By Rupert Parker
