Occupying a phenomenal position right in the heart of the magnificent Espace Killy, where the spectacular terrain can be enjoyed in all its glory over 300 km of pistes, this is an unique ski heaven. An old soul married sensitively to the most luxurious modern comforts imaginable, this is a former monastery, dating from the 17th century.
The property in Val d’Isere is perfectly placed for direct access on skis to over 150 alpine ski runs, the terrain parks, mammoth glaciers, cross-country routes, off piste challenges and the lakes of the internationally known resorts of Val d’Isere and Tignes. This is the ultimate mountain home from which to savour a part of Alpine spiritual history with the incomparable physical beauty only nature can offer in the French Alps.
Monastery 700m2 and 5 floors, divided in two 2 chalets as well as combined
The monastery itself has survived centuries of avalanches, tough weather conditions and heavy snow fall. Boasting total built-in space of over 700 m2, spread over 5 floors, the monastery after renovation is now divided into two self-contained chalets. With identical facilities mirroring each other, the Chalets can be enjoyed independently, or, together, with interconnecting doors on 3 levels. As befits its religious provenance, the monastery was constructed with the benefit of wealthy patronage, and the result is an impressive example of the high end of Savoie architecture.
High-end Savoie architecture, 1 metre thick walls and two levels build in the mountain
The structure is rich with thick hand cut stone, beaten metal and intricate carvings. The intricacy and style in this converted monastery contrast dramatically with the makeshift ‘wood-cabin’ look of other Savoie homes with a farming background. The original walls of the building are 1 metre thick at its thinnest points, and the building backs into the mountain, nestling in it for two of its five levels. No expense has been spared in the meticulous renovation programme which has taken the best part of 5 years and an incomparable degree of dedication from its owners working hand-in-hand with their devoted team of advisers.
The most luxurious mountain haven, which brings back the 17th century
In seeking to make the chalet the most luxurious mountain haven, even the smallest design detail was conceptualised with both beauty and comfort in mind, without compromise to the respectful spirit and quality of the original monument. The result is a re-incarnation of the dignified representation of wealth which cocooned 17th century visitors in peaceful contentment when they arrived at the monastery to seek tranquillity. The renovation programme was implemented by an international team comprising men of complementary skills and experience.
A former Professor of Architecture and unique experienced designer made this magnificent property
A former Professor of Architecture at Grenoble University, who is a nationally revered scholar of Savoie architecture, was appointed as the supervising architect. Stone cutters, wood-carvers, carpenters, marmistas, glass colourists, were then assembled in small units, each excelling in a different calling. A project designer with unique experience of traditional building skills and cinema design was employed to oversee and co-ordinate the progress of the various units.
More than 80 tons of marble, 150 tons of stone and 800m of solid elm
For the infrastructure alone, more than 80 tons of marble blocks, 150 tons of stone and 800 metres of solid elm were deployed. Even the garden boundary walls and pillars were cut, hewn and hand-constructed piece by piece, using ancient techniques and solid stones to match the texture and colour of the original monastery. An entire floor, previously demolished to make way for the restaurant which at one time was housed in the building, has been restored, and the centuries- old fireplace lovingly preserved.
