© Amazon Creek
Lisa Davis - Director at Amazon Creek
Chamonix's luxury chalet experts
Lisa Davis came to Chamonix eight years ago as a yoga instructor, having spent time teaching yoga in the UK and the States. Now she runs one of the premier luxury chalet companies in Chamonix. That's a pretty impressive eight years.
Lisa studied dance at University College Chichester. Thereafter her career for several years was working as a personal trainer, yoga instructor and sports massage therapist. Lisa had her own business in the UK, working with clients on all-round health and well-being. Her first visit to Chamonix was for a photo shoot to create marketing material for Amazon Creek retreats. It was love at first sight.
That’s when she met Tim (back then Amazon Creek's MD). That business contact developed. Marriage, two kids, two dogs, and slowly Lisa became more involved in the management of Amazon Creek. Lisa believes a positive mind helps in all walks of life; being a parent has its challenges, as does running a business. Facing and dealing with those challenges makes you a wiser and mentally a stronger person. Even when there are many things to juggle, step back, take a view and a big breath, and tackle one thing at a time.
Worth knowing
So, if you're looking for a unique chalet experience in Chamonix, delivered by people who live in and love the surrounding mountains, then get in touch with Amazon Creek.
The flagship chalet
Tell us a little bit about your business, how it started out and where you're based in Chamonix.
Amazon Creek was created to provide luxury holidays for families, couples, corporate events, and sailing experiences. It was all started 10 years ago by my husband. He wanted to provide purpose-built luxury properties for bespoke holidays, with tailor made activity itineraries. Since then we have developed into a management company where we now also manage properties for private owners.
How long have you been in your current role at Amazon Creek?
I have been running the business now for six years, ish... I have lost count.
What makes this resort a special place to be for someone in your line of business?
It is great to be surrounded by an amazing natural resort. The commute is never dull, the view from the office is awe-inspiring (we look towards the Aiguilles Rouges), and the variety of activities on offer makes Chamonix a playground for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
What are the best bits about your job?
Sharing where we consider home with our guests, and seeing and hearing the enjoyment they have on their wonderful holidays with us.
And the worst bits?
Having to dig my car out when it's dumped all night. However, that's bittersweet as this also means it is a powder day.
What is in store for the future with Amazon Creek? Any exciting projects in the pipelines that you can share with us?
We are expanding our management team to take on more properties. We are also on the hunt for other amazing locations internationally. We would love to add another beach activity area with an unbeatable 'wow factor'.
What are your personal and professional goals for the future?
Personally, to take more time off and spend quality time in the mountains with my children (they are five and two and take part in the many activities Chamonix has to offer). The reason we live here is to enjoy a work life balance, which I am still working on. Professionally, I want to continue to develop the Amazon Creek brand. On the horizon, we want to work directly with sports professionals and luxury brands to offer alpine and beach activity retreats such as yoga, trail running, and tri-training. Watch this space.
Last summer in the Alps
What's your favourite piste or off-piste area, and top tip for going skiing?
I’m not an off-piste skier... yet! I love Les Houches and Brevent for family skiing with the kids, and for a little blast, Le Tour, as it is not so hectic. Oh, and don’t forget your goggles or glasses.
Where would you send someone who was after that 'something special' in resort to stay, to eat or drink?
Well of course for somewhere to stay I would recommend any Amazon Creek luxury chalets. La Calache is a great French Savoyard restaurant in the centre of town, a really nice place to eat. To go for a drink, Les Caves, to have a dance it has to be Le Chamonix Social Club.
Your personal favourite place for lunch or dinner?
La Cabane Des Praz.
Where will we find the best coffee or hot chocolate?
I don't drink coffee, but our office creative (Naoimh) loves Origin Roasted, a local coffee roaster here in Chamonix. The best hot chocolates are found in the café on the Rue des Moulins, opposite the Chamonix Social Club (just ask my children).
What has been your best ever day in this resort?
I had an amazing day skiing with some great friends who came to visit recently. We had a wonderful morning blasting around Les Houches. We sat outside in the sunshine and over indulged with a naughty lunch. It was the first time since moving to Chamonix we had a full ski day with a long lunch washed down with wine.
Chamonix is home
Do you remember your first trip to Chamonix?
Yes, it was actually a photo shoot in the summer for the chalets here in Chamonix, about eight years ago.
What's your favourite thing to do in Chamonix when not skiing?
Walking with my dogs and kids through the forest along the river. It's magical, and always feels like a new place to explore. We are constantly looking out for wildlife.
What do you do in the summer?
Lots of walking. We take trips to the lake at Passy to swim, and as often as I can I love to cycle.
Which is your favourite shop in resort?
I always love to have a look in Peak Performance. It has a great selection of outdoor clothing.
Where are we most likely to find you for après-ski?
Chambre Neuf. However, with La Folie Douce in town now, we will need to test it out.
Skiing or snowboarding: what's your preference and why?
Skiing. I've never tried boarding, and I don't fancy a bruised bum trying.
If someone was coming here for the first time, what would you suggest they absolutely must do or see in resort?
That’s a hard one as there are so many great things to do. For kids, the luge and the Planards amusements. Aiguille Du Midi for adults on a clear day, and the new QC Therme for a totally lush relaxation experience.
