La Balme

Booked to be on the route of stage 20 of Tour de France but due to landslide route changed. Hotel however was ok even though we didn't expect to have to clean our room at the end or pay 45 euros. As it was we were rarely there, too busy doing Galibier and the Telegraphe cols. Clearly this is not a hotel but designed for other clientele. If you wanted self catering the facilities in the room were excellent. Staff very friendly and helpful. There is a pool although we didn't see it. You can order bread for the next day and there are plenty of restaurants less than 1 km away. There is also a good Carrefour. It served its purpose for us. Only complaint was about the details provided by Expedia in that no detailed description of where the chalets were was provided and when you arrive at 7.45 in Valloire and reception closes at 8 there is an element of panic.Advise you to send for a brochure from the Chalet and there is an excellent description in it of how to find it+

Fantastic place to stay for the 6 of us. It was smart and clean, but also very homely. Great breakfast (cooked and pastry options), super close to ski hire and slopes (few mins walk), sauna and steam were really nice and those who had massages said they were great. Nice afternoon tea/cakes at an extra cost (~12 euros pp). Views from the rooms and the dining area were unbelievable. Had everything you could want I think. I thought the dinner was nice. Some others had more mixed reviews, but I think was good on the whole. We stayed in the hotel for our 3 night stay. Any more nights and we may have gone into town for a change of scene. The best was the staff. Super friendly, helpful, organised and just great to be around. They really made the trip for us. They sorted ski passes and taxis to/from the airport with no fuss at all. The hotel is really close to ski schools and nursery slopes, and some of the rooms were well set up for older kids (say 8 years plus). We were an adult only group, but I'm not sure how good the hotel itself would be for young kids in terms of things to do in the hotel. There were a couple of babies around when we were there, so definitely fine for them to be there. Thanks again to all the staff. We will definitely be back - brilliant stay!

Excellent location. Excellent value for money. The best 2 bartenders in the world (shoutout to George and Freddie for the exceptional service and sharing yoir drink making artistry!). Nice to be able to book a private 30 min hot tub (would be great if it was a touch hotter and a little less bubbly!) the themed dinner nights were excellent and the food very good. We opted for the half board which was excellent value (even considering we opted for one night out at Les Coursives in Meribel village which was the best French food I’ve ever tasted!). Suggest a kettle in the dining room for those of us who like scalding hot tea :) The rooms were big and the beds comfy. Our room had carpet which I personally hate. The lounge was kitschy and cool and had just the right feel before and apres ski. Loved the combo of old charm and low tech with all you need for a delightful stay and this quirky spot. Would definitely come back.