Peter K.
Google
SIMPLY THE BEST
Doesn't it occur to us that we eat or stay somewhere and afterwards we think: Well, it was nice but... Not so at Maison Cimes as there isn't any BUT: This is simply the perfect place to stay and eat!
The rooms are spacious, all southfacing with either a terrace or a balcony (perfect for enjoying the sun and the views upvalley - couldn't get enough of both...), all light filled, both cosy and modern. At Maison Cimes colour plays an important role: May it be on the walls or ceiling in the restaurant/lounge (those wonderful Farrow&Ball-paints are used) or may it be throws, pillows or lampshades.
Outside there is a small but inviting garden to spend sunny days reading a book in sunshine or shadow. On warm days there is the terrace where breakfast is served.
Ah, breakfast! Forget the ordinary "petit-déjeuner" as breakfast at Maison Cimes is far away from something small. Breakfast here is anything but small and gets you easily through the day. And it changes from day to day: bread and yummy jams and homemade joghurt are there every day plus daily changing fruit, charcuterie and cheese (both from small local producers). Xavier is ever so creative in geting a sweet treat on the breakfast table: might it be the classical crepes, a lemon cake or a madeleine. Delicious was the pain perdu we had one morning - probably the best I've ever had!
Breathtaking, too, is dinner which is served at Maison Cimes. It's a three course affair and considering the quality the 35,- Euros for it are a joke. Xavier sources the very best ingredients for his culinary delights. His qualities as a chef are outstanding! The only downside of enjoying dinner here is that you are usually disappointed having dinner somewhere else.
The wine list is a carefully chosen selection of (mostly organic) wines. We tried two of these and both were incredible. There is an honesty bar, too (local craft beer for those sunny afternoons...) plus coffee and tea all day long to help yourself.
Finally there are the people who run Maison Cimes: Both Sandrine and Xavier are superb hosts! They are there when you need them, away when you feel like enjoying the calmness Les Orres has to offer. They are very helpful in every way - might it be with suggestions for randonées or for visiting sights in the area. They are extremly attentive in every possible way!
The expression "a home away from home" is used fairly regularly when it comes to cottages, B&Bs or hotels. But rarely have we felt so extremly comfortable like at Maison Cimes - in every way. A gem in the Alps!