Résidences Village Montana by Les Etincelles

Visited Jan 26. The spa was a real highlight, with two large saunas kept very hot, a steam room so dense you could barely see, and a lovely outdoor pool. The location is great for ski in ski out, and the food was excellent for the price. Our rooms were fine and had plenty of heat, though the shower pressure was low and there was no soap in the bathroom. No huge issue. Staff were excellent throughout, friendly and accommodating. Our flight was delayed and we arrived late, but they’d even saved some dinner for us. A very pleasant stay, priced appropriately for the service.

The food at the hotel was amazing on our half board stay. We loved the Raclette restaurant too; the Italian was okay, but nothing special. We shifted some bookings mid trip so we could eat at the hotel more often, and the staff sorted it out easily. I came home a lot heavier than I left, and blame the cheese buffet. Everyone working there was lovely. It’s in a great spot for ski in ski out and close to ski rental, with large lockers in the ski room. I thought the pool temperature was fine, though I can see why others find it cold. I’d had some concerns from other reviews before our Crystal booking, but enjoyed the stay.

We were a group of 7, aged from 8 to 72, and spent a week half board with Crystal. It was easy to ski from the door and back, which saved us walking up the hill. The pool was warm, and you can enter indoors and swim outside. Rooms were thoughtfully laid out, with bunk beds in an alcove by the door, a separate toilet and bathroom, twin beds in the main area, and a balcony. There was plenty of choice at breakfast. Of the four dinner restaurants, we only ate once at the one that serves breakfast, and found it lacking in atmosphere and too pretentious for tired skiers. The restaurant in block b had a lovely atmosphere and staff, plus a great half board menu. Le Place was our favourite, though it’s at the bottom of the hill and only had an 8.45 sitting. A great hotel, would definitely recommend.

Breakfast offered sweet and salty choices, but the spread was the same each day and leaned heavily on red meat and eggs. Poultry, smoked salmon, or French cheeses would have been welcome. The spa is compact, with a few nice saunas, a jacuzzi, and a heated outdoor pool. There’s no indoor pool, and both the pool and jacuzzi water felt too cold to stay in for more than a minute or two. The hotel is well placed for ski in/ski out, with lockers and a ski shop downstairs. Rooms were cozy and spacious with great views, and the staff were helpful. The parking garage is enclosed, but reserve a space ahead.