USP A ski-spa open to non-residents that uses colours therapy for apre-ski balming.

AMBIENCE The minimalist white spa covers 600sq m, and uses soothing chromatherapy (pretty colours to you and me) throughout. The indoor pool is lined by huge windows with views on to the pistes of Courchevel 1850.

Watching the bubble lift whizz past as I swam was truly relaxing, and the “experience shower”, with lights and sound that recreate the sensation of a thunderstorm and a view of the slopes, was amazing.

QUALITY OF EXPERIENCE Treatments include the “Avant-ski” and “Apres-ski” massage. The spa employs local therapists who are also devoted skiers, so they know just how to work those tired, aching calf and thigh muscles.

FOOD Highlights include crispy suckling pig with baby onions, rosemary milk mousse pudding, and a French cheese board to die for. All with open fireplaces and, of course, fabulous snowy views.

IN-CROWD Guests who want exclusive and discreet – and are happy to pay for it. The spa is also open to non-residents.

WALLET WATCH Ski treatments start at €170 (£128). Double rooms from €950 per night. EasyJet flies to Geneva, from £39.98; www.easyjet.com.

NEED TO KNOW Givenchy Spa des Neiges at the Hotel Cheval Blanc, Courchevel, France (00 33 (0) 47900 5050; www.chevalblanc.com)

MORE SKI SPAS OPEN TO NON-RESIDENTS

Les Thermes de Christiania, Val d’Isère, France www.hotel-christiana.com
Only 100 yards from the chairlift, this sumptuous hotel offers massage packages, from £45.

A-Rosa Kitzbühel Grand Spa Resort, in the Tirolean Alps www.a-rosa.de/en
Overlooking a frozen lake, the spa is open to the public for an entrance fee of £37.

Spa Pure Altitude, Hotel MontBlanc, Megève, France www.hotelmontblanc.com
The ice-walled spa feels like a different world. Sports massages are from £70.

Cordillera Rock Lodge & Spa, Edwards, Colorado www.cordillera.rockresorts.com
The High Altitude Rescue treatment does just that with a hydrating, full-body massage. Prices from £28.

For more than 250 independent spa reviews log on to timesonline.co.uk/goodspaguide

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