The Maison La Saxe is a rare and valuable gem, not to be missed. In a world of homogenized chains, this hotel is the antidote; it reminds you of why we travel and why it is great to meet new people in places that are different from your own. The hotel is in a tiny village, just on the edge of Courmayeur, that feels like time travel. You park a bit below the hotel and then walk into the village, into the interconnected series of stone and wood buildings, all purpose-built to save space and shelter from the weather and share a well and a courtyard. We were greeted with a giant smile by Raphael who told us about the building's history over the centuries and his father's efforts to make a sensitive architectural intervention. It was my son's first day in Italy and meeting Raphael at this exquisite place was exactly what I had hoped for. Fantastic local breakfast, great architectural details and a new friend in Raphael. Next time, I want to bring my favorite friends and family and rent the whole place (6 rooms) for a few days and really get into the rhythm of the place. I cannot recommend the Maison La Saxe enough.