An ecological, timeless approach to the Alps

Chamonix is a real capital, not of a country, of course, but of an extraordinary adventure: alpinism. It was from this village of fearless and intrepid mountain-dwellers that Jacques Balmat and Michel-Gabriel Paccard set out in August 1786 to make the first ascent of Mont Blanc. Since that time, it was in this same village that the Compagnie des Guides de Haute Montagne was created, and where so many outstanding alpine firsts, amazing feats and incredible exploits have taken place, and also, alas, the scene of the most terrible dramas, it was also here that the first Winter Olympics were held in January 1924. It was here that the world discovered a young 11-year-old ice-skater who was taking part in her first Olympics, coming a resounding last. Her name was Sonja Henje and she went on to become one of history's greatest skaters, winning a number of competitions whose record seems unbeatable today.

Chamonix also invented today's modern mountain, both from a sporting and from an ecological or scientific point of view, raising the mountain to an Art de Vivre. The statue of Doctor Paccard in the heart of the town gazes eternally on Mont Blanc and is a snapshot favourite with alpinists and tourists from all over the world come to explore this legendary mountain range (the third most visited natural site in the world!). The town, like the Best Western Premier Morgane, is entirely turned towards this gigantic mountain, as if it was a stage. Equipped with a good pair of binoculars, it is possible to observe expeditions making their way up and down the mountain from the town's terraces.

The hotel was designed to combine four-star comfort with a genuine sporting dimension. It is emblematic of a rare blend of ecological awareness and modern design that explains the use of authentic mountain materials such as untreated stone and wood, all of which faultlessly comfortable. The swimming pool, for example, is reminiscent of a natural basin in a mountain stream. The spa offers treatments based on local plants that are greatly appreciated after a hard day's skiing or hiking. The guestrooms and bathrooms feature an attractive mixture of wholesome warmth and uncluttered space. This invigorating equilibrium is enhanced by a particularly minimalist design, that is anything if rustic, but whose choice of noble materials both reassures and inspires. This demonstration of ecological sensibility makes the Best Western Premier Hotel Morgane a perfect marriage of modernity and timelessness.

The view from all the guestroom balconies and terraces is equally timeless, and one mountain lovers the world over would kill for, taking in the Mont Blanc, Aiguille du Midi, Aiguilles Rouges, etc. The hotel stands in the heart of the town, on the banks of the Arve, a few metres from the cable-car station that climbs up the Aiguille du Midi to a height of 3800 meters.

The Best Western Premier Hotel Morgane is equally renowned for its restaurant that is a destination in its own right. The Bistrot is the proud recipient of a Michelin star and boasts a sumptuous menu and a unique setting. Two of its most emblematic products are culatello (quite possibly the best Parma ham, made from a race of black-haired pigs and only from the heart of the thigh) and chocolate pizza - both as delicious as they are unforgettable.

Best Western Premier Le Morgane

145 avenue Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix Mont-Blanc, France - FR-74400

Phone: +33 (0) 4 50 53 57 15 Fax: +33 (0) 4 50 53 28 07