The DNA: The once nearly-abandoned hamlet of Commeire in the heart of the Valais, Swiss Alps, has been rescued from a slow decay by the Montagne Alternative group, which has taken a collection of near-derelict barns and houses and lovingly restored them to create a unique Alpine experience. It offers stylish and eco-friendly lodge accommodation perched on the side of the mountain and offering spectacular views. It is a fabulous place to get away from it all and enjoy the beautiful Alpine scenery, hikes and nature. The accommodations, spread over 4 different chalets, offer modern decor with clean lines, untreated woods, and high quality materials. All have an open fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen and an iPod docking station. Many of them feature views of Mont Blanc Massif and Mont Vélan. Meals need to be reserved but they are recommended as you would have to drive down the hill to find other restaurants. Breakfast includes locally produced fare such as apricot juice, honey and raspberries and they will happily provide a traditional raclette evening served in the vaulted cellar or ‘carnotzet’ – a place to eat, drink and be merry. Guests can go ski touring or snow shoe walking in winter directly from the Montagne Alternative. Snowshoes and ski touring equipment can be hired on site. Guided tours are available at an extra charge. Also, Montagne Alternative offers in-house yoga sessions, massages, mediation classes and Afghan walking – a sort of walking meditation with consciousness – along with cookery, photography and personal development workshops.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 32 rooms and chalets (18-350m2) (194-3,767 sq ft) • hotel opened: 2015 • architecture & interior design: dl-c ✅ free on-site parking • pets allowed