WINTER PEAKS

A festive charm engulfs this small mountain enclave with its narrow winding streets piled high with freshly fallen snow, fir trees strung with twinkling fairy lights and the vast peaks and pistes of the Alpes all around, with Mont Blanc the highest peak in Europe front and centre on the horizon.

Named after the elevation at which it sits, Courchevel 1850 forms part of the world’s largest ski resort, encompassing three valleys, 600 km of ski runs and over 160 ski lifts. A haven for winter sports enthusiasts and luxury jet setters, the focus of this quaint mountain retreat is the Les Grandes Alpes Private Hotel; a property which over the years has taken on many roles, beginning as a post office, before transitioning into a bank and ski school, and then opening as the very first hotel in Courchevel back in 1948, the same year as the resort’s first ever ski lift.

Located in the very heart of upmarket Courchevel 1850, the Les Grandes Alpes is an upscale mountain property benefiting from a prime position on the piste and making for one of the only ski in/ski out hotels in town. Sitting alongside the likes of luxury brands such as Bulgari, Louis Vuitton and Chanel, the stone facade of the building makes for the stereotypical representation of a luxury alpine retreat, complete with wooden balconies and rooftops heaving under the weight of freshly fallen snow. As if stuck in a state of eternal Christmas, Les Grand Alpes is the perfect marriage of chalet and luxury hotel that leans heavily into the high-end market. A whimsical winter wonderland awaits guests from the moment they arrive at the property, with a festive staircase aligned with foliage and wicker creations.

Suite Life

The property, which was remodeled in 2012 comprises of nine apartments and a total of 30 bedrooms and suites, with the unique layout of Les Grandes Alpes allowing for complete customisation when it comes to room configuration. The four-bedroom Emerald Suite occupies the entire fourth floor of the property and clocks in at an impressive 300m2, offering remarkable views over the tree-lined slopes and numerous ski lifts. South facing dining and living rooms represent the ultimate in comfort, with a circular glass fireplace representing the heart of this particular penthouse. Curled up on the sofas with a mug of hot chocolate and fur blankets while watching the falling snow makes for a truly memorable evening and one of the (many) highlights of a stay at Les Grand Alpes.

These spacious suites have more to offer than the view. A professional kitchen, where private chefs can create culinary marvels is just the tip of the iceberg. Similarly, the children’s play room is not necessarily what you might