Chalet
This article is about a type of building. For the reconnaissance satellite, see Vortex satellite.
A chalet (pronounced /ˈʃæleɪ/), also called Swiss chalet, is a type of building in the Alpine region made of wood.
Definition and Origin
- Webster's Dictionary defines a chalet as "A wooden dwelling with a sloping roof and widely overhanging eaves, common in Switzerland and other Alpine regions". The term can nowadays be used for any cottage or lodge built in this style.
- The term chalet stems from Franco-provençal speaking part of Switzerland and originally referred to the hut of a herder. It derives from the medieval Latin calittum, which might come from an Indoeuropean root cala that means shelter.
Chalets as Holiday Residences
Today, chalets are popular family or group residences in mountain resorts. They can be booked from private owners or tour operators.
The term chalet is also used in the hospitality industry to describe detached cottages (semi-detached are called duplex or triplex) in other settings, including seaside resorts and as an adjunct to motel accommodation. These chalets can be similar to studio apartments with self-contained cooking facilities and/or bathroom and toilet facilities.
North American Usage
In North American ski areas the word Chalet is also used to describe buildings that house cafeterias and other services provided by the resort, even though they often look nothing like the traditional Swiss chalet.
In Canada there is a chain of restaurants named Swiss Chalet, although there is nothing in common other than the name.