Travel With Leigh: A European Winter Escape
Join Leigh on a stylish winter escape across Italy, Switzerland, and France—destination highlights, chalet charm, and unforgettable après moments in celebration of Dustin’s 40th.
To celebrate Dustin’s 40th birthday, we packed our bags and took to the Alps for a weeklong adventure filled with powdery slopes, long lunches, and unforgettable après moments. Three countries, a group of family and friends, and one cozy chalet made for the most memorable winter escape.
If you’re dreaming of your own alpine getaway, consider this your blueprint—from where to stay and ski, to what to eat and where to toast the sunset.
Trip Itinerary
Chalet Pogo // Our Alpine Homebase
We called the spectacular Chalet Pogo home for the week—nestled in the heart of Chamonix, France with views of Mont-Blanc. Hosted by 11-year superhost, Edward William, Chalet Pogo is ranked in the top 10% of homes on AirBnB with a 5-star rating and Guest Favorite status.
Warm, welcoming, and full of rustic charm, it was the kind of place that immediately wrapped you in comfort after a day on the slopes. We loved the thoughtful touches, and the proximity to everything made it the ideal base for our multi-country ski adventure.
Chalet Design Details
Some of Leigh's favorite design details from the Chalet included unique wallpaper, antique furniture, statement tile, and a copper backsplash in the kitchen.
Day 1 // Courmayeur, Italy
We kicked things off in Courmayeur, Italy—a quintessential ski town with postcard views and plenty of alpine charm.
After a day of crisp turns and carving through powder, we wrapped the afternoon with après at Super G. It’s a must—live music, good energy, and unbeatable views of the Mont Blanc massif.
Day 2 // Verbier, Switzerland
Next stop: Switzerland. Skiing in Verbier was as magical as expected—wide runs, snowy trees, and sunshine peeking through the clouds.
Après at Ice Cube was a highlight of the trip. The staff made us feel like old friends, and the vibe was upbeat and stylish. A huge thanks to their team for being so warm and accommodating—you’ll definitely want to make this a stop on your own trip.
Day 3 // Megève, France
France greeted us with blue skies and perfect snow. We hit the slopes in Megève and stopped for a long, leisurely lunch at IDEAL 1850, where the rosé flowed and the views were pure magic.
Après at La Folie Douce was the perfect follow-up—music, dancing, and a high-altitude party to remember.
Day 4 // Chamonix, France
Dustin’s birthday called for something extra special. We explored Chamonix, soaked in the snowy village charm, and celebrated with a progressive day of food, drinks, and memories.
- Lunch + Drinks: Rose Du Pont—charming, delicious, and the perfect pre-dinner toast.
- Dinner: Hameau Albert 1er’s La Maison Carrier—a traditional French dining experience with refined alpine flair.
- Late Night: We made the rounds—La Folie Douce, La Kiosque, and La Janssen—each with its own character and energy, and all worthy of a birthday bash.
Final Thoughts
Travel, for me, is always about inspiration. The textures, tones, and moments I see on a trip often make their way back into our design work at Pure Salt. This trip reminded me of the beauty of contrast—snowy peaks and warm interiors, bustling ski towns and quiet morning coffee on the balcony, laughter with friends and stillness in the mountains.
Here’s to more adventures, more slow mornings, and always making room for a little more joy.
—Leigh
