As the summer season draws to a close, winter holidays are just around the corner. Discover the finest hotels in the 3 Valleys, an iconic upmarket destination grouping together prestigious ski resorts in Savoie.
The Barrière des Neiges hotel in Courchevel
At the foot of the Bellecôte piste in Courchevel, the Barrière des Neiges hotel oscillates between elegance and authenticity. Enhanced by the talent of decorator Nathalie Rayan, this five-star establishment perfectly combines the warmth of the 3 Vallées hotels with contemporary furnishings, as evidenced by the lobby and its fireplace next to a magnificently illuminated helix-shaped staircase. Light wood, white marble and silky fabrics adorn the mountain-style architecture. Two restaurants, Fouquet’s and B’Fire, have already joined the hotel, and the hotel is preparing for the winter season with new restaurants, including the iconic Loulou. 42 rooms and suites, with wood panelling on the walls and carpets on the floors, look out onto the snowy peaks. As for the luxurious spa, it extends over no less than 1,000m2, providing the perfect setting for moments of relaxation at the 20-metre pool and in the open-air jacuzzi after a day on the slopes. A hairdressing salon, smoking room and cinema complete this chalet-style setting.
Le Coucou in Méribel
Not far from the Italian border, Le Coucou Méribel stands at the foot of the Rond-Point des pistes. With its chalet-like appearance, the mountain hotel extends over 12,000 m2 and 10 floors. On the outside, the hotel is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. Inside, Pierre Yovanovitch has created a chic, contemporary design. Most of the 55 colourful or more refined rooms have a terrace with a breathtaking view of the 3 Vallées. We could admire this panorama for hours… but the 450m2 spa is calling us. And we gladly accept the invitation. The pool surrounded by arches seems to plunge into the jacuzzi set in the snow, yet a pane of glass separates the two spaces. There are also two restaurants, the Beefbar, with its tender, comforting meats, and the Biancaneve, dedicated to French cuisine.
L’Altapura in Val Thorens
Perched at an altitude of 2300 metres, L’Altapura is a Val Thorens and 3 Vallées institution. Its Nordic architecture gives pride of place to spaciousness, combining chic and conviviality. Architect Christophe Bachmann took his inspiration from the 70s and transposed it into the modern era. The wall, decorated with 200 vintage skis, is an example of this. Wood, stone, designer furniture, comfortable armchairs… The luxury of the mountains, without its sometimes kitsch appearance, is highlighted. It’s easy to imagine sitting back in a fur-trimmed rocking chair and enjoying the immaculate scenery in one of the hotel’s 88 rooms. There are three restaurants on offer. There’s the 2mille3 buffet, La Laiterie with its delicious cheese dishes, and Casa Alta, for a trip to Italy. Finally, the 1,000 m2 glass-paved spa is renowned for its swimming pool, Nordic spiral course and ice grotto, all in an atmosphere that fuses granite and birch.
The Pralong hotel in Courchevel
Back on the road to the prestigious resort of Courchevel to stay at the five-star Hôtel Pralong. With its wood panelling, patterned armchairs and printed banquettes, this refuge has preserved the cosy spirit of the chalets of yesteryear. This design is the work of decorator Claudia Ravnbo, who has renovated the 65 rooms and suites using top-of-the-range materials, checked plaids, fur fabrics and raw wood. For food and drink, head to Musher, where you can savour the comforting flavours of the mountains on the panoramic terrace. The spa features Turkish steam baths perfect for relaxing muscles after exercise, as well as a beautiful underground swimming pool.
Le Savoy in Méribel
In the centre of Méribel, the Savoy may only have four stars, but it easily compares with establishments with five. In winter, its location 50 metres from the slopes is ideal for making the most of your day. In summer, its location in the heart of the resort is ideal for strolling through the narrow streets. The décor is refined, warm and family-friendly, with contemporary touches that enhance the chalet architecture. In the restaurant, for example, a cascade of light merges with the fireplace and exposed beams. The library bar promises moments of sharing with family or friends, over a book or a good hot chocolate. 38 refined rooms are available. Most have a balcony or terrace with mountain views. A real treat. Finally, you can relax in the Finnish spa, with its hammam and massage room.
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Featured photo: © L’hôtel Barrière des Neiges
