Cruseilles, France
Route du Château 74350
Tel:+33 4 50 44 02 23
CHECK-IN RIGHT THIS WAY
LOCATION 
Not all fairytales are confined to books. Some live in the imagination, while others leap from the pages of childhood storybooks and into the world. They are as real as daylight—if you know where to look.
Between steep winding roads and verdant moonlit woodlands of the Salève meadowscape, Château des Avenières, which nestles amongst the rolling hills of Cruseilles, France, appears out of a rising mist like a magical castle inviting travelers and frequent flyer pilgrims to drift into quietude, surrender to stillness and briefly escape the mundane hum of the quotidien.
This family run hotel is situated in a small commune on an elevation that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mont Blanc, Geneva, Annecy and its lake, as well as the surrounding Haute-Savoie countryside. By car, it takes a mere 30 minute drive to reach the hotel from downtown Annecy or from Geneva airport.
CHARACTER & STYLE
If one takes a curious peek into the hotel’s history, one is intrigued to find that this property sitting on a 62 hectare estate, was conceived by two visionary women in the late 20th century. Once a former home, then a top-tier educational institution before its transformation into a luxury inn, Château des Avenières has seen the changes of time yet it still carries the same philosophy as when it was first conceived—a tranquil place to escape, due to its seclusion while nurturing inspiration. Perhaps it’s what brought Phil Collins to loll here for two weeks and record one of his albums, while surrounded by its beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Mont Blanc.
With its pitched roofs, solid limestone facade, and Burgundy style architecture, it is a rich blend of medieval grandeur and refined elegance. The main building evokes an old world charm and timeless flair. A grand staircase leads to a bar and a cosy lounge, large wooden shelves juxtaposed with ornate gothic elements, fireplaces and a piano that the former Genesis lead singer once tinkered with. An annex building called ‘The Squirrel House’ is a contemporary chalet with commodious rooms suited for families and larger groups.
THE ROOMS
The 20 spacious rooms are spread out amongst two properties, all with its carefully curated fabric patterns and furniture as well as tasteful in-room designs. No room is the same and each chambre is named differently reflecting an individuality of style and immersive atmosphere. A room called ‘Louisiane’ has that playful vibe with colors inspired by Mardi Gras. Quite a contrast to the room next door dubbed as ‘Sonate’ where it feels like you are taking residency in an opulent musician’s mansion. Some rooms come with large private terraces and jacuzzi baths.
The annex chalet resembles a luxury alpine mountain lodge – fireplaces, games room, sauna, sheepskins and pine wood equipped with modern comforts. Château des Avenières delivers an ambiance that can make each guest a character in a storybook – be it romance or adventure in the Alps this makes for an unforgettable stay.
BEDTIME ETIQUETTE 
Whether on holiday, honeymoon, business trip or on a quick stop-over, the hotel ushers in that much needed calm and relaxation – from breathtaking views of the outside down to the private confines of the bedroom. Each room is a character in itself, inviting the senses to release the day’s burden. Beds are comfortable and good enough for quiet quick afternoon naps as well as night time slumbers. The marine French cosmetic brand, Algotherm bath and body products are provided to add an extra touch of pampering. As one review says on tripadvisor ‘LIEU MAGIQUE’.
KEEPING IT GREEN 
The Odin Family with their strong roots in environmental protection are staunch supporters of sustainability and human welfare. Energy efficient upgrades were carefully implemented during the recent renovation of the château while preserving much of its historic architecture. The hotel carries a garden-to-plate approach prioritizing seasonal and locally sourced organic produce on top of its commitment to reducing carbon footprint as well as plastic use.
The hotel safeguards its grounds and natural surroundings as home and refuge amongst local wildlife while offering guests an immersive nature experience. Electric bicycles and a fully electric classic car are available. Lastly, inclusion plays a big part of the hotel’s ethos and it is evident from the diverse staff of different nationalities they hire.
FACILITIES
- Free Parking
- EV Charging Station
- High Speed Internet (WiFi)
- Chapel / Shrine
- Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
- Wellness Area
- Spa and Sauna / Hamman
- Badminton and Basketball Courts
- Greenhouse
- Electric Bicycles
- DeVinci Vintage Electric Car for hire (Classical car from the 30’s fully electric)
- Housekeeping / Laundry Service
- Bar
- Gourmet Restaurant (Le M) offering inventive Savoyard cuisine
- Pet Friendly (pets are allowed only in the main building)
Ever since its opening in 1994 and lovingly looked after by the Odin family, Château des Avenières has become a perfect getaway for discerning travelers, celebrities and romantics alike. Old world charm meets contemporary splendor with familiar warm hospitality. The pervasive calm and detachment is perhaps the ultimate luxury here where one can soak in the stillness, melt in tranquility at the same time commune with nature.
A fairytale château in the heart of the French countryside, or a shrine, or a cocoon, call it whatever you like. I can just see Phil Collins happily banging his drums and humming “Do you see the sun – it’s a brand new day. Oh, the world’s in your hands, now use it”, from his 1996 album ‘Dance Into The Light’ recorded at the lush grounds of the chateau. If this is perfect for Phil, why wouldn’t it be good enough for you?
4.7 / 5 Rating
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