Le Caprice Des Neiges

Emmanuel Renaut fell in love with Haute Savoie as a child, long before achieving his Meilleur Ouvrier de France title, and his predilection for Alpine produce is deeply ingrained (pike, char and whitefish from Lake Geneva, mushrooms and wild herbs, mountain cheeses). At times he has fun subverting the regional cooking that is expected of him – a case in point being his superb langoustines marinated in citron, caviar with zesty grapefruit and gentian roots. Plants are also given an increasingly important role in his cuisine. An enchanting high-altitude chalet at the summit of fine dining.

This tastefully refurbished century-old inn at the edge of the village overlooks the Beaufortain mountains. It is the domain of an enthusiastic young chef who previously worked in pastry at a Michelin-starred establishment. Benoît Goulard proposes surprise set menus drawing on the best produce in the region – always seasonal and eco-sourced. His aim is not to tell some sort of story with each dish, but simply to conjure up refined and contemporary-style cuisine that looks and tastes great, showcasing his keen eye for detail. This also goes for the desserts, which are well worth a try! The same

Take your time to settle in at your table in this stylish but snug space, in which marble and oak create an authentic and timeless decor. In the fine dining restaurant, chef Alexandre Baule (originally from Isère) brings vegetables to the fore in his bid to elevate Savoie produce. The bistro, open every evening for dinner, rolls out classics: Magland snails, delicately smoked Savoie chestnuts and spruce, or pot-au-feu-style beef with faux filet, tongue and ravioles. Comfortable guestrooms fitted out in chalets await, should you wish to extend your stay.

A restaurateur couple – chef Kevin Bieber (who for a long time worked at Flocons de Sel) and his partner Mélanie Laugier – are the brains behind this fine little restaurant, whose terrace overlooks the Arly Gorges. In the rustic-style interior (think wood panelling and animal skins), diners tuck into delicious traditional fare, combining good quality ingredients (the Arctic char with sorrel comes to mind), well-crafted dishes and traditional mountain hospitality.

In the heart of the village, on the pedestrian street next to the church where a large Christmas tree is erected in winter, this converted chalet is home to an authentic Breton eatery. Yvon Madec oysters are served alongside Breton pancakes – buckwheat galettes and wheat flour crêpes – enhanced with Japanese or Savoyard touches, for instance "Breizh Roll" with Reblochon cheese, or raw milk raclette galette. Locally sourced produce, cheese from a refiner in nearby Manigod and a fine selection of ciders and wines… plus wallet-friendly prices.

In Japanese culture, a rōnin is a samurai without a master, which is Anthony and Émilie's metaphor for their unfettered approach to cooking – their traditional cuisine with a twist does not eschew exotic touches. In season, game takes pride of place, eg wild suckling boar, served roasted and as a pithivier. The Grand Marnier soufflé remains the house speciality. Trendy Alpine-inspired decor and friendly service!

The restaurant may sport a characteristic rustic Alpine vibe, but the appetising cuisine is no less modern, made with fine local ingredients. And let's not forget the remarkable list of Alpine wines.