In 1981, Jocelyne and Jean-Louis Sibuet began applying their creative minds, laborious hands and knowledge of interior design to create Fermes Marie Hotel. Now, Maisons et Hôtels Sibuet has become a bona fide family business made up of 10 properties in Megève.
Lauded as the most sophisticated and authentic properties in the Alps, Maisons et Hôtels Sibuets’ chalets have long been a haven for families and lovers. Standing proud as the biggest hotel chain in Megève, the exceptional chalets and discerning hotels serve as luxury home for those visiting this timeless winter destination. Maisons et Hôtels Sibuets’ philosophy and passion of authentic luxury, fabulous food and alpine pursuits runs throughout the collection of properties, right down to the very last detail. And this is kept alive by the owners children (Marie & Nicolas), who have been brought into the management fold.
I caught up with Marie Sibuet and here’s what she had to say about the Chalets des Fermes collection:
“Our chalet collection is unique because we carefully chose the criteria and design by ourselves. We wanted to create a different kind of lifestyle with each chalet. Some are rustic chic, others are more contemporary and some are just charming. Each chalet is different and we love them all, but each one has something special about it, like the location, the style, or sometimes just the smallest details.”
Exclusive and tailor-made are the name of the game with these chalets. Each one can be personalised to an exceptional standard with private chefs, butlers, housekeepers, and concierge on-demand, if you so please.
Chalet des Fermes de Marie
Photos credit: Chalet des Fermes de Marie / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
“My favourite chalet is Fermes de Marie because it use to be our family home—I grew up there! The location is amazing, just a few minutes walk to Megève’s old town, and there’s an underground pass connecting you to our Fermes de Marie Hotel, so you can benefit from using their facilities too. This chalet will always hold a truly special place in my heart.”
Marie Sibuet
Rough-hewn woods and crystalised snow set the scene for an atmospheric alpine retreat for couples seeking an intimate escape, big families celebrating an anniversary or a winter-wonderland inspired wedding. Step inside Chalet des Fermes de Marie and revel in the crystal chandeliers and rich fabrics that cosy up against weathered oak panels, smoke-ingrained fireplaces and worn-smooth floorboards. Not forgetting the soft furnishings which bring a homely and enticingly romantic edge to this much loved chalet. But there’s not just pretty furniture lying around. You’ve got a personal jacuzzi, sauna, gym and massage table waiting to be tried and tested. Finally, you’ve got the benefit of the sister hotel’s 5-star services: restaurants, Pure Altitude Spa, Hameau des Enfants and Ski Shop.
Chalet Chatel
Photos credit: Chalet Chatel / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
Rustic has never looked so luxurious. The Sibuet family has lovingly captured a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new in an authentic style with Chalet Chatel—something guests praise to this day. When you’re not swooning over the quintessentially alpine accessories like cosy furs, tweeds, wood fires and exposed beams, hit the nearby slopes or shop til you drop into the chalet’s cushion-lined sofas. After a pampering session in your own private sauna, retire to one of the five bedrooms—each one effortlessly blends comfort with French allure.
Chalet Forêt Noire
Photos credit: Chalet Forêt Noire / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
The showpiece of the Chalet Forêt Noire is its lounge, thanks to its wealth of natural textures: reclaimed wood, rough-hewn beams, centuries-old panelling, terracotta tiles and an abundance of farmhouse tables. Lie back in front of the crackling fire whilst a delicious dinner is prepared in the kitchen. Whether you use the hotel’s private dining service, or cook for yourselves, this is the place for long meals that go on into the small hours. The beautifully furnished dining area opens onto the terrace, so you can take that late night brandy or hot cup of cocoa out into the crisp night air.
Chalet des Hermines
Photos credit: Chalet des Hermines / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
With an inimitable nomadic appeal, handcrafted-meets-upcycled at Chalet des Hermines, creating an authentic woodcutter-inspired hideaway. Lovingly restored from an 1885 farmhouse, the chalet is concealed by its verdant nature surroundings, yet conveniently located just within five minutes from the ski lifts that will take you to the Espace Diamant ski area and Praz-sur-Arly. The open plan kitchen and dining area encourage a communal vibe of wining and dining with your loved ones, while the lounge areas are blessed with fluffy sheep, carved chests, antique credenzas and endless oak-wood tables to get creative. But the decadent decor takes centre stage in the bedrooms and bathrooms. No two rooms are the same but all of them manage to create a feeling of dreamy romance. Think: cosy wooden cabins with ultra-soft throws, treasure chests, tasselled pillows and freestanding deep soaker tubs. #dreamy
La Ferme du Planellet
Photos credit: La Ferme du Planellet / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
La Ferme du Planellet is a chalet of two halves, where old and new, indoor and out, meet seamlessly and complement each other perfectly. At first glance, you’d assume this property was as typically alpine as Heidi and raclette, with its rich woods and sheepskin blankets. But modern furnishings and sleek lighting bring the chalet’s traditional looks right up to date. When you’re not throwing punches in your own private gym (at the punch bag, not each other obvs), be sure to make use of the blissful location you find yourself in. This place is ideal for those wanting a digital detox, an opportunity to get lost with your lover in the snowy slopes and surrender to the serenity Mont d’Arbois.
Chalet des Écureuils
Photos credit: Chalet des Écureuils / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
Tranquillity and romance unfold in the heart of Rochbrune at this alpine-luxe barn conversion. Situated in one of the most exclusive areas of the French Alps, and tantalisingly close to the slopes, Chalet des Écureuils is beautiful both inside and out. Clean lines contrast stylish character, while floor-to-ceiling windows, a neutral palette, stunning wildlife photography and some fabulous sculptured pieces bring this chalet to life. Grab a blanket and a vin chaud and settle yourself on the huge terrace for someone one-on-one time. Don’t forget, you can always heat things up in your own private, heated pool.
Chalet du Darbelet
Photos credit: Chalet du Darbelet / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
Need a place to get that novel finished? Shrouded amidst the snow-covered pine trees and dense woods of Mont d’Arbois, Chalet du Darbelet delivers on all the traditional alpine fronts and makes for a cosy winter hideaway. Quintessential wood cabin charm and French allure come courtesy of hand-sewed cushions, tartan drapes cushions, wood-carved chairs and gabled roofs. The reassuringly alpine decor continues into the living room with its crackling log fire splashing colour and warmth throughout—the perfect place to unwind and share tales of adventures on the mountain. The bedrooms are simple but snug, as you’d expect from a woodcutter’s lair.
Chalet des Renards
Photos credit: Chalet des Renards / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
Think rustic log cabin meets luxury scandi design. Chalet des Renards is a no fuss kind of place. Designed to meet the desires of discerning couples, this straight-talking house doesn’t disappoint. With lofty ceilings, neutral palettes, French windows and plenty of textured fabrics, from slubby sofas to stacks of faux fur throws to snuggle under on snowy afternoons. The property has a comfy and cosy vibe that’s further enhanced by its statement fireplace which sits at the heart of the open-plan living space, bringing a welcoming warmth to the entire chalet. At every turn is sheer simplistic elegance, from the high-end kitchen to the sensational en-suites. After a morning on the pistes there’s nowhere nicer to return to. Lounge in unadulterated comfort around the fire, and recuperate in time for an evening either on the town or a midnight dip in your own indoor pool.
Chalet de la Cry
Photos credit: Chalet de la Cry / L. Di Orio, F. Ducout, D. Derisbourg F. Paubel & DR
If you’re looking for private and peaceful bolthole on the slopes to celebrate a special anniversary or much needed group holiday, then Chalet de la Cry could be the place for you. There’s a pared-back understated essence to this modern rustic creation. Stylish works of art combined with aged wood, noble materials and ultra-modern amenities give this space a really individual, homely feel. The boujee dining area and breakfast bar overlook the kitchen, which is equipped with every gizmo and gadget you could ask for. For any foodies reading this: experiment with the local ingredients and indulge in a communal fondue with your nearest and dearest. P.S. It’s best served out on the terrace after a long soak in the jacuzzi and hammam.
“As you see, we offer a chalet to suit every type of traveller, for nature lovers opt for Chalet Chatel, if you’re a spa addict Chalet des Écureuils is the place for you or if shopping is your therapy then the Chalet des Fermes de Marie! Whichever one of our chalets suits you the best, our concierge team will do their best to help you organise everything before and during your stay to make it a fairytale experience.”
Bienvenue!
Marie Sibuet
