Why Chalet Living Is Reshaping Swiss Mountain Travel

January 2026–A Switzerland trend that may fit your broader travel coverage: chalets are no longer just for ski season. Operators are seeing increased demand for summer and shoulder-season stays as travelers rethink how—and when—they experience the Alps.

MBM Chalets in La Tzoumaz (4 Vallées) is positioned at the center of this shift, offering private, serviced chalets like its newly portfolio addition, Chalet Hobhouse, for families and groups seeking space, scenery, and flexibility beyond winter.

MBM Chalets founder Matthew Burnford can speak to:

  • Why Swiss mountain summers are gaining momentum

  • How weather patterns are influencing travel behavior

  • The evolution of chalet culture year-round

The Shift: Why Chalet Living Is the New Way to Ski Switzerland

Travelers are increasingly prioritizing space, privacy, flexibility, and shared experiences–especially families, multigenerational groups, and social skiers traveling together. Chalet stays allow guests to ski, dine, and gather on their own terms, while still accessing world-class terrain.

Here’s a closer look at Chalet Hobhouse, a newly added MBM property that captures the shift toward private, chalet-first travel in Switzerland.

Living room with large windows showing mountain views, wooden beams on the ceiling, a fireplace, a gray sofa with yellow and patterned pillows, a wooden coffee table with a vase of flowers, a furry armchair, a television, and mountain artwork above the fireplace.

Inside Chalet Hobhouse: light-filled open living with panoramic views and a log fireplace–ideal for relaxed gatherings after skiing or hiking.

A cozy bedroom with wooden beams on the ceiling and large windows showing snow-covered mountains. The bed has white linens and decorative pillows, and there is a side lamp on the wall. A sitting area with a table, chairs, and an armchair is visible near the windows.

One of Chalet Hobhouse’s six en-suite bedrooms, where traditional alpine architecture meets contemporary comfort, overlooking the surrounding Swiss mountains.

A breakfast table set with plates of fruit, eggs, waffles, and beverages, in a room with large windows overlooking snow-capped mountains.

Chalet Hobhouse’s layout suits everything from relaxed family meals to formal dinners.

Several wooden houses surrounded by green trees and grass in a mountainous area with blue sky.

Mountain villages like Verbier are increasingly attracting travelers beyond winter, positioning the Alps as a year-round destination.


Chalet Hobhouse at a Glance

  • Location: Verbier (quiet yet central, minutes from the Médran ski lift)

  • Capacity: Sleeps 12 across six double bedrooms, each with private en-suite bathroom

  • Spaces: Open-plan living, fully equipped kitchen, generous balcony with valley views

  • Features: Natural light throughout three levels, luxury finishes, abundant storage, Egyptian cotton linens

  • Access: A short walk or free shuttle to ski transport and local amenities

  • Starting rate:

If you’re covering ski travel, Alps lodging trends, winter openings, or the rise of summer mountain tourism, I’d love to connect you with Matthew for quotes or a call. Please be in touch on starting rates. 

All the best,

Cassie
cassie@sheiladonnelly.com