Owned since 1903 by the Carrier family, this luxury hotel (Relais & Châteaux) is named after the Belgian king who loved this ski resort. It has 'wonderful views' and, says a visitor, 'it is extremely well and unobtrusively run'. In a big flowery garden on the edge of town (some noise from the bypass), it consists of a large brown building and three chalets. The best bedrooms are in La Ferme (Italian designer furniture; shiny modern bathrooms). 'Our room had eight windows facing Mont Blanc.' 'Ours, with sitting area and balcony, was in Alpine style.' The inventive cooking of chef Pierre Maillet has taken over from his father-in-law Pierre Carrier, and retains two Michelin stars. The rustic Maison Carrier serves traditional regional dishes informally around a huge fireplace. Also enjoyed: 'generous breakfasts', lunch on the terrace, the après-ski ambience, the half-covered heated swimming pool, the fitness centre. 'The staff are terrific.' In summer, 'there are comfortable chairs in garden, and lots of shade'. Children are welcomed. Ski passes and lessons are arranged, and there is a free shuttle around the valley.