Description Echo of the Mountains: Châtel

Sip wine from the barrel-top table on the snow-view balcony and you'll understand exactly why Châtel works so well as a base. Timber-panelled bedrooms and a plush living room with mountain views make unwinding between ski runs easy – and the free shuttle stop just metres from the door connects you straight to the lifts. In summer, the mood shifts entirely. Lac de Vonnes is a ten-minute stroll away, and the forested slopes rising directly behind the apartment are perfect for hiking.

Home truths:
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can arrange a cot. You'll need to request it in advance.
* The maximum capacity here is six adults and two children – if your group includes more grown-ups than that, this apartment won't quite stretch, as the little ones will be sleeping on a bunk bed in the hallway.
* As is common in France, the toilet is separate from the bathrooms.
* A complimentary mid-stay cleaning service is included for stays of 14 nights or more.