This winter marks a very special anniversary for VIP SKI. Ten years ago we collected the keys to ‘Le Griffin’ and embarked on a mammoth renovation project to build and create the now hugely popular Altitude Lodge.
We’ve delved into the archives and dug out some remarkable photos of the renovation process.
From this...to this!
Complete transformation
When Andy Sturt, MD of VIP SKI, acquired the building it was a small provincial mountain restaurant, traditionally French from the charming wooden cladding to the slightly eccentric murals which decorated the walls. Over the course of three years (you can only renovate in the summer months!) we refurbished the property from top to bottom, extending upwards and completely replacing the roof. We retained the endearing details which make the building so homely but updated everything else to the high standard expected of a modern hotel.
The project certainly wasn’t without its challenges, with regular stoppages to rehouse the marmottes who would try to take shelter in the basement. They can still be spotted by eagle-eyed guests in the summer months.
Creating happy memories since 2011
We first opened Altitude Lodge back in December 2011 and have welcomed over 2,500 friends and families keen to discover the Portes du Soleil ski area and the resort of Les Gets.
Les Gets has always maintained a certain sleepy cache and exclusivity when compared to Morzine, its nearest, better known neighbour. The resort centre is a delightful mix of cobbled streets, piste side bars and traffic free retail therapy. Altitude Lodge sits 300 metres above Les Gets in Les Chavannes. The setting provides a skier’s dream, right on the slopes with balconies overlooking the piste, and three bedrooms even have private hot tub.
This year we have taken the decision to close the lunchtime bar and restaurant so that guests can have sole use of the entire property and terrace. Anyone seeking peace and quiet is sure to find it here.
Here’s to many more wonderful years
Thanks to all our guests who have helped to make fantastic memories over the past ten years. We can’t wait to see what the next decade holds.
Stay with us this winter with prices from £1019pp. Book before 31 October and save £100pp on all January ski holidays and 17th March ski holidays