Chalet One - history
Hi I'm Andy and back on the 10th of October 2010 I signed on the dotted line and bought Chalet Number One (as it was called). I could write a book about my adventures since.
I'm told Chalet One used to be a Mazure with a large barn attached. Looking at the video on the home page you can see the tall part of the building that used to be the barn. The smaller stone clad part of the chalet has six doors on one elevation. The purpose of this part of the building was in effect as a stone built safe shared by six families - hence the doors.
Most of the village buildings would have been constructed from timber and there could be regular fires resulting in the loss of one or more homes.
A stone built Mazure would survive the fires keeping the families valuables safe.
The buildings fell into disrepair (see the photo on the right)
In 1993 Chalet Number One was opened, having been renovated from the wreck by Lloyd and Sarah Rogers. Named because it was the first chalet accommodation for the newly opened ski station of Sainte Foy.
In 2007 the Rogers sold to Nick and Nicky Brake who had moved over from their Morzine base. Over a couple of years the Brake's renovated Chalet Number One to form the basis of how the building is today.
In 2010 I started my French adventure.
Firstly I renovated the basement turning it from a damp couple of rooms to a cosy staff bedroom. One bedroom got a new wet room and plastic baths were replaced with metal, a large expanse of old external timber wall cladding was replaced after insulation was added. A new range stove and single oven and a myriad of fridges, freezers and a commercial dishwasher were added or replaced.
To date it has been non stop with new beds, a huge TV, carpets and a redecoration throughout including new original art.
From 2010 to 2017 I operated as a catered chalet, with invaluable help from various seasonaires and the support of many guests.
With no one really knowing how Brexit would impact I took the decision to close and enjoy the chalet as my home in the Alps.
I love the old place and have, while it has been closed, renovated my own apartment.
I have now decided to reopen as self catered accommodation for winter and I look forward to sharing my home with you.
