Hotel Le Faucigny

Although Hotel Le Faucigny underwent a complete renovation in 2011, the building hasn't lost any of its charm. The changes incorporate many of its historical features, such as the tiny staircases and the granite frames on windows. It's a homey, cozy place -- that is, it's homey and cozy if your own home is a hyper-trendy mountain lodge. Different shades of gray and bright red combine to create a contemporary Scandinavian vibe, while the reception area features a combination of rustic oak wood tables and gray-stained pine chairs. Illuminated faux taxidermy adds an artsy touch, and the sharp breakfast area, which doubles as a popular daytime lounge, has a fireplace and a wall of deliberately arranged books. The hotel has its own stunning garden terrace that's a great spot for peering up at the mountains while having coffee. With its central location, sharp decor, and compact quarters, the hotel generally draws young skiers and snowboarders.

Hotel Le Faucigny is situated right in the heart of historic Chamonix, and is just a two-minute walk to the center of town. There are a number of shops and restaurants all around, as well as a grocery and a pharmacy. With the local ski shuttle service operating only a couple of minutes away, it's also a convenient spot for reaching Les Grands Montets, Les Houches, and Le Tour. The Brevent Cable is two minutes beyond the shuttle on foot, leading to breathtaking views of Mont Blanc from a height of 4,810 meters (15,781 feet). The best way to reach Aiguille Du Midi is to take the cable car, which is a scenic 10-minute walk from the hotel. The closest railway station to Hotel Le Faucigny is Chamonix-Mont Blanc Station, and can be reached in just five minutes by foot. Geneva Airport is the closest airport to the area, and is 80 minutes away by car.

Rooms are limited in terms of space, and are best suited for light travelers, though the modern Nordic style is attractive. Plush dark gray carpets often match walls and lampshades, while white chairs, bed covers, and headrests all complement the subtle pops of red, creating a cozy, mountain-chalet atmosphere. Most rooms face other buildings, though there are some with beautiful views of Mont Blanc. Top-floor rooms -- which have low, sloped ceilings -- lack windows and have only skylights. Standard Double Rooms only measure a tiny 11 square meters (118 square feet). Superior Rooms have more generous floor plans, and the Family Room has a lofted sleeping are with two additional single beds. LCD TVs with satellite channels are in every room and Wi-Fi is free. There's also a good amount of storage, though don't expect air-conditioning. Bathrooms vary in size. Some include just a shower, while others have a bathtub or both. All are clean and fresh looking, and come with a selection of toiletries as well as heated towel racks and robes.

Despite its small size, the hotel has a decent number of features, including its own attractive spa, complete with a hot tub, sauna, and a range of beauty and relaxation treatments. A ski room can be found in the basement, where guests taking to the slopes can store their equipment, instead of in their cramped rooms. The hotel also provides bicycles, which are free of charge and great for touring the area in warmer months. The breakfast buffet features both hot and cold options is served daily and comes at a fee, although tea, coffee, and cakes are free throughout the day. A communal patio out back has immense views of Mont Blanc. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and there are free computers to use as well. There is no on-site parking.