Formula One magnate Bernie Ecclestone got to chill out in what appeared to be a cosy log house in West London for an early celebration of his 85th birthday later this month.

Only it wasn't really a cabin, nor was it winter.

According to the Daily Mail, Mr Ecclestone's elder daughter, Tamara, surprised her father on Saturday with a transformation of her Kensington mansion - from a formidable red-brick exterior to the panelling of a wooden cabin.

But this was not just any wood cabin. The facade is actually a replication of Mr Ecclestone's S$49 million ski chalet in Gstaad, Switzerland.

Specially planted trees topped with fake snow and a driveway covered in white sheeting completed the look on the outside.

A step into the 57-room house revealed a complete adherence to the Alpine cabin theme.

Mounted animal heads hung around on the walls, and there were fur-covered seats. Guests were also served a decadent dinner at the cabin which was named Chalet Bernie especially for the occasion.

The celebration came more than a week before Mr Ecclestone's actual birthday on Oct 28.

A cake covered with pictures of the billionaire was served, and Ms Ecclestone's husband, daughter and younger sister Petra were present at the festivities.