Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a complete beginner, Europe offers some of the most scenic, challenging, and diverse ski destinations in the world.
As the days grow shorter and the first snowflakes of the season begin to fall, Europe’s ski resorts are gearing up for another thrilling winter.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a complete beginner, Europe offers some of the most scenic, challenging, and diverse ski destinations in the world, and France offers some of the very best of all. From the vast ski areas in the French Alps to charming villages in the Pyrenees, France offers a unique mix of spectacular landscapes, world-class facilities, and a deeply rooted ski culture.
But it is the pretty French village of Courchevel that really wears the crown. William and Kate, Pippa Middleton, the Beckhams, Kate Moss, Robbie Williams, Elton John, Gordon Ramsay and many more celebs have graced the slopes of this pretty French town.
READ MORE: The magical Christmas market in seaside town named one of the best places to live
It’s not just the rich and famous who can’t wait the feel the snow beneath their skis.
According to the travel experts at OMIO, Google searches for ‘ski holiday’ have increased by a huge 97%, and are set to peak between December and January.
Savvy skiers could pick up return flights from London to Lyon for as little as £25 return in January – the gateway to the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps and Courchevel. Departing from London on January, 9 with Wizz Air, this could be an inexpensive start to an auspicious ski season.
Of course, things could get a little pricey when you get there.
Located in the Tarentaise Valley of the French Alps, Courchevel is packed full of luxury hotels and amenities paired with world-class skiing. Five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and designer shopping await in the ski resort famous for its opulence and luxury.
Film star Brigitte Bardot helped to put it on the map in the 1960s and the resort even boasts its very own airstrip directly on the slopes, accommodating dozens of private jets each day during peak season.
Where to stay
Courchevel’s combination of luxury, privacy, and stunning alpine scenery continues to attract the rich and famous year after year.
Perhaps the most famous is the stunning Hôtel Les Airelles which is often described as a “fairy tale castle.” Located just steps away from the slopes it’s an overwhelming experience of opulent decor, a lavish spa and gourmet dining options.
Hidden amongst the pine-scented mountains, Les Airelles offers a home-from-home for most of the celebs that visit Courchevel.
Another celebrity favourite is the Hotel Cheval Blanc. Part of the prestigious LVMH group, this five-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a world-class spa, and fine dining by Michelin-starred chefs.
For well-heeled skiers who would rather have their own chalet, the Grandes Alpes Private Hotel & Spa offers slope-side apartments complete with their very own butler and five-star dining.
Of course, some celebs would prefer to rent a home for themselves during their stay and there are plenty to choose from. TV Chef Gordon Ramsay previously shared pictures of a family stay in a £150,000 a week holiday home complete a with cinema room, private gym and swimming pool with four housekeepers and two butlers.
Where to eat
Courchevel boasts more Michelin stars per square meter than anywhere else in the world, with 12 awarded across seven restaurants.
Among them, Pierre Gagnaire located in Les Airelles is an exquisite two Michelin-starred restaurant with Hermès tableware and stunning Saint Louis chandeliers.
For posh fondues and ritzy raclettes, Le Pilatus has previously welcomed Kate and William among a long list of rich and famous diners. Best known for its spacious sun terrace and traditional cuisine, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc.
For a night out, Les Caves de Courchevel Nightclub is one of the most talked about in the Alps, while La Grange has a trendy bar and legendary DJs popular with the type of partygoers who like to spend summers in St Tropez.
Where to ski
The most famous slopes in the region can be found in the Courchevel 1850. The highest and most luxurious part of Courchevel, its here that plays host to upscale amenities, high-end hotels decadent nightclubs.
The is a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert slopes. The Granges run is great for intermediates, while Creux is a popular choice for beginners. For advanced skiers, the Couloirs de la Loze provides a thrilling challenge.
Courchevel 1650 (Dourchavelle) is a more family-oriented area with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful tree-lined runs, while the Courchevel 1550 (La Tania) provides easy access to the entire Trois Vallées area.
You’ll need deep pockets to experience Courcehvel like a rock star, but at least you could save some money on the flights.
