A look inside: Chalet Hidden Dragon

July 30, 2012 by Oli Corkhill

Described by previous guests as having “…microscopic attention to detail” and being the “…perfect escape from reality” Hidden Dragon is definitely one of the most luxurious chalets available to rent in the world. The property is genuinely unique and since its opening back in December 2009 has provided some of the most incredible alpine stays for numerous guests.

A fusion of Swiss authenticity and Asian seduction, the chalet has an auspicious Feng Shui location (that’s also ski-in/ski-out) and was chosen for precisely this reason. There’s a mountain to the rear providing support and protection with a winding river to the front that offers cosmic Qi. The plot was “prepared with Shinto rituals to cleanse the earth and appease the mountain spirits.”

hidden /hid(e)n/ – (adj)

concealed; out of sight
designed to elude detection; secret
difficult to find; obscure

dragon /’dragen/ – (n)

benevolent mythical creature in eastern culture
inhabits auspicious lands
protector of the world and overcomer of obstacles
represents happiness, immortality, procreation and fertility
water diety: rain, snow, river, sea, ocean

Hidden Dragon offers four floors of the most contemporary and indulgent alpine styling around. Hidden Dragon has a traditional exterior and exudes the charms of a traditional Swiss ‘cabane.’ With Asian touches throughout, the interior has modern furnishings and antiques that are matched with organic materials such as bamboo, hide and eel skin to create a multi-textural and highly visual effect that enlightens the senses and creates a unique atmosphere.

There are six super king en-suite bedrooms (they can of course become twins by request.) Two of these bedrooms are ‘master-suites’ and all but one have balconies. Even the colour schemes of the bedrooms have been selected in line with feng-shui principles. For those that don’t know in feng-shui there are five elements: fire, earth, metal, water and wood. Fire for instance represents passion and high energy and is the element of south. South-facing rooms would usually be red and north-facing rooms would for instance be black, as they are at Hidden Dragon.

Hidden Dragon has the ultimate ski room which takes the form of a Gentlemans club room. There’s everything from heated boot racks to personal kit baskets and leather club chairs. It’s also worth mentioning the après-ski bar in this room where you can unwind with a drink after skiing to the door.

A huge emphasis has been placed on gastronomy at the property with amazing cuisine and a cellar packed with fine wines. The chef whisks up indulgent yet healthy meals focusing on superb quality produce and locally sourced ingredients. The owners (brother and sister) have Eurasian heritage (half Japanese,) so there’s an Asian fusion style to the cooking. Combining French cooking techniques with the Japanese philosophy of letting quality produce speak for itself is certainly a winning formula. Of course the menu can be completely tailored to guests requirements so if you feel like something, just ask.

Hidden Dragon is renowned for its spa and treatments. There’s a hammam, yoga deck, sauna, hot-tub and a meditation room. There’s also a a rain shower and treatment / massage rooms. Whether you want a deep tissue or sports massage or a manicure and facial the team are able to meet and exceed your needs. During the summer Hidden Dragon offer a range of experiences from yoga retreats through to golf and fitness. In the winter guests usually want to head up the slopes, who wouldn’t when you’ve got a ski-in/ski-out location in the Four Valleys. It’s also worth mentioning that Alex Coudray, one of the worlds top freeride snowboarders, works in partnership with the chalet and can be on hand to show guests an unforgettable time in the surrounding backcountry.

The chalet is available to book throughout both the winter and summer with very personal and tailored experiences. You can view more information on the Hidden Dragon page and do make sure to share this incredible chalets with your friends.

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