Apartment Barthes | 4-Bedroom Chalet in Les Belleville

A four-bedroom chalet apartment in Les Belleville positions you 150 metres from the chairlift access to Les Menuires, placing you at the gateway to the three valleys ski domain. Apartment Barthes sits in the quieter residential pocket of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville—Proche Centre, where the architecture honours Alpine tradition while interiors embrace contemporary comfort, and ten guests find ample space across thoughtfully arranged rooms and three full bathrooms.

Inside Apartment Barthes

Apartment Barthes sleeps 10 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with sleeping configurations designed to accommodate multi-generational groups and larger family gatherings. The layout flows across multiple levels with accessible entrances and a ski locker positioned at ground level for immediate boot-and-board convenience.

The master bedroom features a double bed with direct ensuite, offering a restful retreat after days spent on the mountain. A second double bedroom includes an ensuite bathroom and can be configured as twin beds upon request, accommodating different guest preferences. A third ensuite bedroom follows the same layout—one double bed with private bathroom access, ensuring privacy and comfort across the main sleeping quarters. The family bedroom departs from standard hotel configuration: it combines a double bed with a single bed, alongside a full ensuite, making it ideal for parents travelling with a younger child, or grandparents sharing space with grandchildren. Additional sleeping capacity comes via a cabin bedroom with two bunk beds and a trundle bed, providing flexible arrangements for children or younger adults in the group.

Three separate bathrooms service the property. Two are ensuite to primary bedrooms; the third remains independent and accessible from the hallway, reducing morning competition during peak-activity periods. Each bathroom features contemporary fixtures and heated towel rails—a practical touch in the Alpine winter season.

The living and entertaining spaces command the heart of the apartment. An expansive living area anchors the layout, centred on a working fireplace where wood-burning warmth becomes a focal point during evening gatherings. Adjacent sits a dedicated TV lounge, allowing guests to fragment into separate zones without hearing conflict. The dining room seats the full party of ten comfortably—a critical feature for groups—and opens directly to the kitchen without awkward passages. Soft wood finishes and muted neutral tones throughout create visual continuity; strategic pops of colour (deep reds and warm yellows) punctuate the scheme without visual overwhelm. The fully fitted kitchen runs on induction hobs and includes a raclette machine and fondue appliance—functional nods to Savoyard dining culture. An electric juice squeezer, complete kitchen equipment, and ample worktop space make self-catering feasible for groups, though most guests opt to explore the village restaurants instead. A separate laundry room prevents drying clothes from invading living quarters, and a utility WC near the kitchen adds practical convenience.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

A sweeping panoramic terrace extends from the main living areas, capturing unobstructed views across the surrounding mountains. This is where the property reveals its true character—the terrace functions as an extension of interior living during summer months, when green meadows replace snow cover and the landscape opens into Alpine vistas. In winter, the same terrace transforms into a snow-laden overlook, the kind of space where morning coffee tastes better because you’re 1,600 metres above sea level, breathing mountain air. A secure garage provides covered parking and tool storage, eliminating the morning scrape of car windows. The ski room—a dedicated space distinct from the garage—keeps equipment organised, boots dry, and bindings accessible without cluttering communal areas.

Location: Les Belleville and the Surrounding Area

Les Belleville encompasses three interconnected settlements within the Savoie department of the French Alps: Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens. Apartment Barthes occupies the most accessible zone—the Proche Centre area of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, where residential calm coexists with active proximity to the slopes. The village centre sits 800 metres away by foot or a three-minute drive, offering cobblestone streets, a historic church, and traditional wooden chalets that photograph like postcards. The postcard appeal is genuine rather than manufactured: these chalets date to the 18th and 19th centuries, their steep rooflines engineered to shed heavy Alpine snowfall.

Les Menuires, directly accessible via chairlift 150 metres from Apartment Barthes, operates as the main ski hub. Its altitude of 1,850 metres ensures consistent snow cover from December through April. Val Thorens stands higher still at 2,300 metres—France’s highest ski resort—and connects via a 20-minute ski descent from Les Menuires. Together, Les Trois Vallées comprises 600 kilometres of connected runs ranging from nursery slopes (ideal for children attending the ESF ski school) to ungroomed couloirs suited only to advanced skiers. The Courchevel valley lies 25 kilometres away via the Loze pass, accessible by road in 35 minutes or by ski in two hours from Val Thorens.

The village supports two supermarkets—Carrefour Express in the centre (900 metres away) and a smaller Petit Casino closer to Proche Centre—stocking fresh produce, local meats, and the cheeses and wines essential for self-catering. Local restaurants cluster around the village centre: Le Chamois serves traditional raclette and fondue; La Bouitte holds two Michelin stars for refined Savoyard cuisine; and Le Grenier specialises in Tartiflette and Reblochon-based dishes. The village markets run on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, featuring local honey, walnut oil, and the Beaufort cheese wheels that define regional gastronomy. Our collection of luxury villas in Les Belleville spans similar elevations and proximity—each positioned to capture this particular combination of Alpine heritage and modern mountain comfort.

Summer transforms the region entirely. The meadows explode into wildflower displays from June through August; temperatures sit in the comfortable 18-22°C range. Mountain biking circuits thread through the valleys—the Méribel valley loop (45 kilometres) and the gentler Belleville valley circuit (12 kilometres) suit different skill levels. The hiking season peaks July through September, with the GR5 long-distance trail passing through the region. Paragliding launches operate from several ridge points; equipment rental is available in Les Menuires. Winter brings the ski season (mid-December through April), with school holidays in February bringing crowds, higher prices, and guaranteed snow. Spring skiing (March-April) offers longer daylight hours and warmer afternoons, though variable snow conditions require flexibility. Visit our 3 Valleys travel guide for comprehensive seasonal planning. Alternatively, explore our range of luxury villas across France to compare regional options.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Apartment Barthes serves multi-generational family groups with precision. The configuration—multiple ensuite bedrooms, cabin sleeping for children, separate TV lounge, and large dining table—eliminates the scheduling friction that derails shared holidays. Grandparents occupy ensuite bedrooms with easy access and bathroom privacy; parents choose the family bedroom or double ensuite; children settle into bunk beds with supervised independence. Groups of ten friends (five couples) also fit seamlessly: no shared bathrooms, no haggling over hot water.

The property particularly suits families with young children and infants. High chairs and cots are available on request; the ground-floor layout prevents stair navigation for parents managing toddlers and luggage simultaneously. The proximity to the ESF ski school means children aged three and up can begin lessons within walking distance. Parents wanting non-skiing recreation find the village shops, cafés, and a small adventure playground near the church. Winter visits suit families comfortable with snow; summer appeals to those prioritising hiking, biking, and warm weather over powder.

Groups seeking self-catering flexibility rather than hotel service will find the kitchen, fireplace, and social spaces conducive to extended stays (one week minimum). Couples seeking winter romance can claim an ensuite bedroom and enjoy the fireplace for two; the full 10-guest capacity becomes unnecessary, though paying for the space ensures complete privacy and silence—an increasingly rare luxury in mountain villages.

Practical Information

Apartment Barthes accommodates 10 guests: 4 bedrooms with flexible sleeping configurations (one double, two doubles-as-twins, one family configuration, one cabin with bunks and trundle). Three full bathrooms eliminate morning bottlenecks. Wi-Fi (4G via dedicated box on request) supports remote work, though connection speed reflects mountain limitations rather than city-standard broadband. Heating throughout the property runs on electric radiators and the wood-burning fireplace; no additional fees apply for winter warmth. A TV in the lounge and separate TV in the living area accommodate different viewing preferences without conflict.

The nearest international airport is Geneva Aéroport (GVA), 135 kilometres away with a 2.5-hour transfer drive. Chambéry airport (CMF) lies 85 kilometres distant with a 1.5-hour drive and cheaper flight options for European routes. Both airports connect via the A6/A40 motorway system; the final 25 kilometres switch to winding mountain roads without tolls. Transfer services can be arranged directly through Excellence Luxury Villas. Self-drive guests should confirm winter tyre requirements with their car-rental company; chains are mandatory in heavy snow and strongly advisable December through March. Parking occupies a dedicated garage space; no street parking disputes arise.

Check-in occurs from 4pm; check-out at 10am. Flexibility is sometimes negotiable outside peak season—email reception to discuss specific arrival times. Linens, towels, and kitchen basics are included. Cleaning at departure is standard; mid-stay cleaning can be arranged for stays exceeding two weeks. Ski passes for Les Trois Vallées can be purchased at the resort entrance or online in advance; a seven-day adult pass costs approximately €330 (winter 2024 rates). The apartment does not include ski pass costs, lessons, or food—only accommodation infrastructure and utilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Apartment Barthes

How many guests does Apartment Barthes sleep?

Apartment Barthes sleeps 10 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The configuration includes: one double ensuite; two double/twin ensuite bedrooms (convertible per guest preference); one family bedroom (double plus single bed with ensuite); and one cabin bedroom with two bunk beds and one trundle bed. This mix accommodates families spanning three generations, groups of friends, or couples with extended family without shared bathroom conflicts.

What is the nearest airport to Apartment Barthes in Les Belleville?

Geneva Aéroport (GVA) is the primary international hub, 135 kilometres away with a 2.5-hour transfer drive. Chambéry airport (CMF), 85 kilometres distant with a 1.5-hour drive, offers competitive flight prices and shorter transfer times for European destinations. Both airports service the Les Trois Vallées region; Geneva provides broader international connections while Chambéry suits intra-Europe travel. Excellence Luxury Villas can arrange airport transfers in advance.

What is the best time of year to rent Apartment Barthes?

Winter (December-April) dominates for skiing and snowsports. December-January offers quieter slopes and Christmas markets in the village; February brings peak snow but larger crowds and higher prices due to school holidays. March-April provides longer daylight hours and warmer afternoons, ideal for skiers who prefer afternoon sunshine over powder depth. Summer (June-September) suits non-skiers: temperatures reach 18-22°C, wildflowers peak July-August, and hiking trails fully open. September offers Indian summer conditions with fewer visitors. Avoid November and May—weather is unreliable, attractions are closed, and visibility on mountain passes is poor.

Is Apartment Barthes suitable for families with children?

Yes. High chairs and cots are available on request; the layout includes a family bedroom designed for parents plus young child. The ground-floor entry eliminates awkward stair navigation with pushchairs and luggage. The ESF ski school operates from Les Menuires (accessible by chairlift 150 metres away), accepting children from age three. A supervised adventure playground sits near the village church for non-skiing days. Raclette and fondue machines turn dinner into interactive play for older children. Winter visits require comfort with snow; summer alternatives focus on hiking and biking rather than water activities.

What is included in the rental price at Apartment Barthes?

Accommodation includes all utilities (heating, hot water, electricity), Wi-Fi access (4G box on request), kitchen equipment, linens and towels, TV access, fireplace wood, and parking in the garage. Baby cots and high chairs are provided on request at no extra charge. Ski passes, lessons, food, and non-essential amenities (spa treatments, mountain guides) are not included. Cleaning at departure is standard; mid-stay cleaning services are available for longer bookings. Check-in is 4pm; check-out is 10am with flexible arrangements possible outside peak season.

What restaurants and shops are near Apartment Barthes?

The village centre (800 metres away) contains Le Chamois (traditional raclette/fondue), La Bouitte (Michelin two-star refined Savoyard), and Le Grenier (Tartiflette specialist). Carrefour Express supermarket sits 900 metres away; Petit Casino is closer. Wednesday and Saturday farmers’ markets operate in the village centre, stocking local cheese (Beaufort), walnut oil, honey, and seasonal produce. The nearest ski resort restaurant—Le Crêmerie in Les Menuires—opens at 1,850 metres with panoramic views; it’s reachable by chairlift in five minutes. Wine shops and delis cluster in the historic quarter, selling Savoyard wines and charcuterie for self-catering dinners.