About Girl Powder

Why I fell in love with Chamonix Mont-Blanc

Over 20 years ago, I first came to Chamonix Mont-Blanc with my husband and our six-month-old baby for my first alpine summer escape. From the first moment, I fell in love with the mountains, the energy crackling throughout the valley, and that unique mix of grungy and elegant that makes Chamonix unlike anywhere else. Since then, I’ve returned at least once a year, each trip deepening my connection to this magical alpine town.

How a dream of a family chalet in the Alps began

One ski trip stands out. Fifteen years ago, my husband and I hopped on a shared minibus transfer from Geneva to Chamonix (under 90 minutes away-another reason why this valley is so special). On that journey we met a young woman heading home to her family chalet. Watching her father greet her with a hug under twinkling fairy lights planted a seed in me: the dream of one day creating a haven in the Alps for my own family.

Transforming apartments into Chalet Mélèzes in Les Bois

That dream became a reality years later during the first COVID lockdown. After months of searching and persuading my husband, we discovered three apartments for sale in Les Bois, Chamonix, by the same person, all with planning permission to convert into a chalet. I couldn’t even visit in person at first, but I trusted my instinct and Chalet Mélèzes grew into something more magical than I ever imagined. Designed with open spaces, en-suite bedrooms, and facilities perfect for groups, it became both space for our family and a place I wanted to share with others.

Explore Chalet Mélèzes

From Chalet Mélèzes to hosting women’s ski & wellness retreats

As the walls of the chalet went up, so did a new vision. I realised how much I loved hosting, meeting new people, and people and sharing the magic of the Alps. What began as a family dream transformed into Girl Powder Retreats- a chance to welcome women from all over the world to ski, hike, practice yoga, and connect in the heart of Chamonix. The chalet was designed with hosting groups in mind-lots of open space, fabulous facilities and all en-suite bedrooms.

Girl Powder Today: Adventure, yoga & community in the Alps

I haven’t looked back. Girl Powder is more than a retreat- it’s a community built around adventure, wellness, and the joy of the mountains. From first-time visitors to seasoned travellers, my goal is simple: to help you fall in love with Chamonix the way I did.

Want to join us and experience the dream?

Book now.

See you soon,

Laura