Philosophy

Montagnettes: A Family Story

I was born in 1992, in Val Thorens

When Agnès Girard organized the first residencies and, little by little, brought to life the spirit that drives me today: that of Montagnettes.

For me, hospitality has never been just a job. It’s a skill that’s learned, built up over time, through contact with places and the people who live there. From the very beginning, I’ve thought of each space as a sanctuary: a place where you can unpack your bags, close the door on the outside world, and finally feel safe, at your own pace. And those who come to stay with me—I welcome them as one would welcome family: with care, without pretension—naturally.

Agnès’s daughters have made this idea of family their own. They grew up with me, and then they chose to help me grow in turn. Today, they work alongside her every day to continue writing my story. What Agnès started is being passed on: to them, to the teams joining my establishments, and to every “ person ” who learns to welcome guests just as they were taught. They help me grow and keep alive the spirit that drives me.

Over the years, my establishments have grown just as a family grows: each with its own personality, habits, and history. They are not alike, but they all share the same philosophy: that of a warm, sincere, and deeply human welcome.

That's what still guides us today. Not just the desire to create beautiful places, but the desire to create places where people feel welcome. Truly.

Family games at l'Oxalys and Val Thorens.
At the Soleil Chalets in Val Thorens
1992 Val Thorens 's Chalets, my first idea

I was born at Val Thorens, a complex of large apartments designed like small attached chalets—without large common areas or hotel-style services, but with a very special, human touch. The concept was new for its time: around me, mountain resorts mostly focused on small living spaces. But the vision that drives me was already clear: to provide a safe haven for people and bring families together in a simple, welcoming setting.

2002: The construction of l'Oxalys —my first major turning point

Ten years later, I built Oxalys, and I took things to the next level. The spacious apartments remained, but I now had staff and amenities at my disposal: a pool, dining options, and a ski shop. This marked the beginning of my move upmarket, without ever losing sight of the spirit of my early days.

l'Oxalys's apartments: bright and cozy
The view from an apartment in the Hameau du Kashmir, in Val Thorens
2012 Le Hameau du Kashmir , the arrival of the hotel industry

In 2012, I took the business to the next level with le Hameau du Kashmir, introducing full-service hotel amenities in addition to the original apartments: a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, a restaurant, a pool, a spa, and a ski shop. I then shifted toward offering a more comprehensive experience, while remaining true to my family-oriented philosophy.

2022 Villa Caroline: My Return to the Basics

In 2022, I’m taking over the “ Villa Caroline ” at Duingt, on the banks of the lac d'Annecy. This marks a turning point: no more large housing complexes or apartments, but a true hotel, following the traditions of the hospitality industry. It also marks my return to smaller, more intimate establishments—ones that are closer to people and driven by a deliberately more personal touch.

View of the lake and mountains at the Villa Caroline, in Duingt

I'm still growing

New projects are in the works, driven by the same intention as on day one: to welcome people warmly, with care and sincerity. I’m taking on a new look and exploring new horizons, but I’m still true to myself—and that’s what matters most.

I move forward with a quiet boldness—the kind that seizes opportunities as they arise rather than waiting for them. Each new project is a way to continue what I started in 1992, but in a different way.

 

I don't quite know what's coming yet. But I can't wait to find out.