The escape, an exceptional chalet in front of the slopes

The escape is the result of the restoration of an old barn combining modern and traditional architecture. Located in the center of the village of Sainte Catherine in Vars, it allows you to enjoy one of the biggest ski areas in the Southern Alps in a traditional village atmosphere. The main chalet has 4 adult rooms and 2 dormitories (8 single beds) which accommodate up to 16 people. The former forge transformed into annex can accommodate a couple of adults and 2 children.

A place full of history

The escape is more than just a modern chalet. The owners have endeavored to preserve the soul of the existing place and to evolve the elements of the old barn of the 19th century. It consisted of a hay barn on 2 floors, a stable in the basement and a forge attached to the barn.

Thus, the atmosphere has been preserved, among other things in the old barn, making this renovation a unique place.

Renovation work

The renovation and reconstruction work lasted nearly two years. The old barn could be preserved thanks to the meticulous work of local craftsmen. The barn was completely rebuilt, using local species (larch from the Queyras) and benefiting from the experience of the company Chabrant.

Modernity has been brought about through the architectural treatment of the whole. The architect Benoit Fournier (Ceillac) has among other things opened this barn on the mountain, the sunshine, the light and allow a breathtaking view of the ski slopes.

The decoration, entrusted to Virginie Dumont (Ane Bleu, Marseille) wanted to be simple and minimalist in order to magnify the unusual volumes of this chalet.

Exterior: gardens with Nordic bath, 4 private parking spaces

Ground floor: entrance hall, ski-room, 2 dormitories single beds (4 per dormitory), 1 bathroom, 2 toilets

Level 1: kitchen and dining room with table 14 people living room with fireplace, 1 master suite with bathroom and WC, 2 double bedrooms, 1 bathrooms, 1 WC

Level -1: a double bedroom, a hammam, a bathroom, WC, the old stable in vaults.

Possibility in addition to renting the Chalet independent and adjoining: 2 bedrooms (2 single beds and a double bed), a bathroom WC, a living room kitchen (separate announcement)

During the ski season, the rental is made from Sunday 16h to Sunday 9h, which will avoid many traffic jams on the road!

In order to pass you a car all the week, a shuttle is available in season every 20 mns (followed live on the app of vars) next to the chalet and gives access to the first lifts located at 800m.