Discover Musée des Arts Décoratifs

The MAD Musée, MAD in French stands for Mode, Arts, Design is in a 19th-century wing of the Louvre building on the Rue de Rivoli, however, it is not a wing of the Louvre. Last fall, I enjoyed the  “Christian Dior: Couturier du Rêve, exhibit which attracted a record breaking 708,000 visitors in 6 months.

I hope to pop through Paris in time to view the current exhibit: the jewelry collection of Diane Venet.  From Alexander Calder to Jeff Koons and ranging from Max Ernst, Pablo Picasso and Niki de Saint Phalle to César, Takis and Louise Bourgeois, a host of modern and contemporary artists have taken a close interest in jewelry. Diane Venet, who has collected artist’s jewelry for more than thirty years, is sharing her passion for these miniature artworks that often echo the artist’s formal language. Her collection of some 230 pieces, complemented by exceptional loans from galleries, collectors and the artists’ families, chronologically and thematically illustrates the work of 150 French and foreign artists. From March 7 to July 8, 2018, Diane Venet’s jewelry collection will be showcased in an exhibition designed by interior architect Antoine Plazanet and graphic designers ÉricandMarie.

the current exhibit: the jewelry collection of Diane Venet.  From Alexander Calder to Jeff Koons and ranging from Max Ernst, Pablo Picasso and Niki de Saint Phalle to César, Takis and Louise Bourgeois, a host of modern and contemporary artists have taken a close interest in jewelry. Diane Venet, who has collected artist’s jewelry for more than thirty years, is sharing her passion for these miniature artworks that often echo the artist’s formal language. Her collection of some 230 pieces, complemented by exceptional loans from galleries, collectors and the artists’ families, chronologically and thematically illustrates the work of 150 French and foreign artists. From March 7 to July 8, 2018, Diane Venet’s jewelry collection will be showcased in an exhibition designed by interior architect Antoine Plazanet and graphic designers ÉricandMarie.If you are staying at Le Meurice, please request des billets from the concierge.

 

 

 

Four Seasons Megève

If you aren’t going hiking in Portugal this summer, then might you consider Megève
France? We haven’t stayed yet, but I think a site inspection should be added to my spring schedule!

There are only a few hotel brands I trust without a visit and the Four Seasons is one I trust. We reserve a phenomenal amount of business with Four Seasons and I have been fortunate to visit many of their properties. Sending the hotels much business translates to superb VIP attention for our clients, usually includes upgrades and always scrumptious amenities.

Introducing the recently opened Four Seasons Megève – this is the only hotel located on the slopes of Mont d’Arbois, five minutes from the village center. Consider a summer adventure, exceptionally situated beneath Mont Blanc, the breathtaking scenery is in its glory during summer. When the sun comes out, the mountains transform into an Alpine playground, with so much to be explored. Family friendly, enjoy discovering the region by land, air and water or you can simply relax and enjoy the sunshine or the enchanting and picturesque Megève village. Easy access, arrive Geneva and enjoy a 75 min drive to the village. Petite resort with 55 rooms, including 14 suites. Six spa suites, and five dining options. A mountain perch, the suites include a separate living room with fireplace, inviting you to curl up for a cozy evening. Lounge outdoors on your furnished balcony, savor spectacular views of the mountains and valley. On warm summer evenings, it’s your own private sanctuary for quiet relaxation or al fresco dining.

One of world’s preeminent ski destinations, Megève is set among the snow-capped peaks of the Haute-Savoie Alpine range, facing Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest mountain. Founded in the 13th century and transformed into an exclusive ski resort by the Baroness Noémie de Rothschild in the 1920s, this small French town has become known for sophisticated luxury in a discreet understated atmosphere. Megève has a pedestrian-only medieval center with cobblestone streets, designer boutiques and excellent restaurants. The main square is dominated by its church, which dates back to the 14th century and is designed in late Gothic style. Many of the houses in the old center are medieval in origin and from the main square you can easily wander through the appealing narrow lanes, sometimes discovering the lavoir (communal washing areas) on Rue d’Arly or small fountains. Summer visits are enhanced by colorful mountainsides, lush green forests and fresh air.

A plethora of summer happenings: hiking, serious trekking or meandering ambles, mountain biking, canyoning, mountaineering, hot air balloons, paragliding, kayaking or heli-escapes and even golf! Craving a more relaxed experience, then consider village life and sampling divine French cuisine. For hikers there are 150km of marked walking trails to explore and those on bikes can explore a system of over 300km of sign-posted trails.

An invigorating ride by mountain bike – set out exploring trails connecting to nearby towns, such as Sallanches, Combloux, Flumet and Praz-sur-Arly. Savor the spectacular scenery and views of the majestic Mont Blanc.

Mountaineering – whether you are a beginner or an experienced mountain climber, with one or several days to explore, Megève offers a choice of spectacular circuits, varying in both geography and difficulty.

Hiking or biking – discover Megève’s large network of trails through colorful mountain meadows and lush green forests. For more vigorous hiking, climb towards the peak of Mont Joly.

Golfers –  enjoy priority access to one of the world’s oldest and finest Alpine golf courses. Four Seasons Hotel Megève overlooks the 17th hole of the Mont d’Arbois Golf Course (Golf du Mont d’Arbois). Designed in 1964 by three-time British Open champion Sir Henry Cotton, the course combines splendid mountain scenery and impeccable Four Seasons management, creating a peak golf experience.

Spa is the largest in the region, which covers 900m² with six treatment rooms including a VIP suite for couples with sauna and steam room, a beauty salon and a fitness center.

Surrounded by large terraces, Four Seasons Hotel Megève also has a wonderful indoor and outdoor pool with underwater music, a lounge area, a fireplace and a bar. The Kids Club with its Kids for All Seasons activity program and the Teen Zone with its own cinema are the largest in the region and means your kids will be catered for throughout their stay.

 

Hmm- I’m enticed, are you? Sounds heavenly!