The Alpine loft
We cannot say enough good things about our beautiful Chamonix Loft in Sandra’s “My Sweet Home”! It truly was a home away from home and wonderful retreat. First of all, it is very bright and beautifully furnished. The dive grey and soft white decor is modern, comfortable and designed for relaxation. Second, the kitchen is well equipped, modern, and everything functions perfectly. There are dishes and utensils for every need. Third, the bedroom and en suite are lovely with beautiful and functional built-ins, and plenty of storage for our multi-week stay. There was even a handy hidden closet to hide the suitcases. Fourth, we really enjoyed the large dining table for our workstations, and the charming breakfast bar for our meals. Fifth, the loft is loaded with charm with the gorgeous white washed roof beams, oak floor, and mountain and church spire views from the windows. Sixth, it is centrally located, 15 minutes to the lake front to watch gorgeous sunsets, and in the other direction 15 minutes walk to the viel Annecy to see the romantic canals, cafes, restaurants, and shops. We rented a car and it was easily accessed by the equally nearby train station. We were able to push our 5 suitcases the distance. Last but not least. The house is a charming traditional home, complete with stucco and operable traditional shutters. We really enjoyed the modern shutters that opened and closed with the click of a button, but the real fun was swinging open the traditional blue French shutters to let the sun shine in every morning. We made excellent use of the free bicycles to ride around the lake and to Chateau St Bernard de Menthon. Also the bed was very comfortable and the place was squeaky clean. Sandra provided us with extra towels and made our stay very comfortable with her warm touches of fresh flowers at the entrance to our loft, and a welcome note left a a framed chalkboard, our first day. We will come back if we are lucky! We will recommend this amazing loft in the beautiful town of Annecy to all our friends.
The Alpine loft
I spent 2 weeks in Annecy taking morning French classes and riding a road bike most afternoons - what a great combination! The bright, Scandi-style loft was a cosy, calm place to stay, and the house is well situated: a short walk to the Alliance Francaise, and an even shorter walk to the Saturday market (Marche boulevards Nicollet et Taine) where the selection of local cheeses is particularly impressive. Sandra connected me to a nearby (and well-priced) bicycle rental location, and there was a secure space for bike storage in the house. The road biking was wonderful: I warmed up with the circle route around the Lac d'Annecy, then explored the routes running through the Col de Leschaux (which is a fairly gentle ascent from the lakeside). One of the options from that col is the Tour du Semnoz, a great big ride with lots more climbing. When you' re ready for more steepness go to the other side of the lake and head up to the Col de la Forclaz - it's demanding, but the views are unforgettable.
