We’re always on the lookout for cool places, no matter what or where they are. But rarely do we come across something that’s ultra-cool. The White Pod resort in the Swiss Alps definitely falls in to that category (Vincent Hofer | Jean-Marc Palisse | White Pod supplied the fascinating featured image, above).
Parked on a high mountain pasture on the side of the Dents-du-Midi mountain in the top Swiss skiing region of Valais, it has the luxurious feel of a mid-range chalet combined with the sense of being in tune with the pristine alpine environment that envelopes it.
The resort has 15 geodesic domes positioned on wooden platforms. Individually and collectively they’re visually striking thanks to their aesthetically pleasing latticework of triangles and their white colour that’s harmonious with the surrounding snow-covered landscape. They look great lit from the inside at night too.
Inside they’re furnished in a minimalist, yet luxurious fashion (gorgeous linens, light-wood flooring). And although they appear to be constructed of very thin materials (they are in comparison to the resort’s conventional chalets), they have a very cosy feel. The stylish free-standing wood-burner certainly helps on that front too. The side facing down mountain is made see-through materials, so you get a lovely view to wake up to each morning (don’t worry, you get curtains).
The pods are made even cooler by their eco-credentials. The resort’s eco-tourism concept, which orientates around energy efficiency, waste reduction and the use of renewable resources secured it an international sustainable tourism award in 2005, just after the pods were opened.
Rates range from CHF 360 to CHF 590 (£238 to £390).
Included in the price are buffet breakfast, tea-time, access to the sauna, Wi-Fi at the main chalets, parking and access to private ski lifts. On the packing list should be: a head lamp, snowshoes and shoe spikes, walking sticks and a backpack.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
