Why Courchevel is perfect for a luxury ski break
If you're looking for the perfect destination for a luxury ski holiday, turn your attention to Courchevel. Known as one of the world's most exclusive ski locations, Courchevel is situated in the Three Valleys area of the French Alps and is made up of five separate resorts that all share the same skiing area.
Comprising Courchevel 1850, Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1550, La Tania and Courchevel Le Praz 1300, the resort's different areas each have their own character. Courchevel Le Praz 1300, for example, is a traditional and charming village, while Courchevel 1850 is chic and sophisticated. The latter is a haunt of the Parisian jet-set and international stars and is thus renowned as the ultimate spot in which to enjoy a luxury holiday.
A veritable paradise for winter sports enthusiasts spread over 600 km, Courchevel offers an excellent range of slopes that cater for all abilities. As most of these are north-facing, the resort is arguably more snow-sure than others in the Three Valleys, and you'll find more than 400 snow cannons and 22 piste bashers here.
In all, there are 275 runs, 101 of which are suitable for beginners. Intermediate skiers can practise on 146 runs, while there are 28 advanced options for seasoned sportsmen and women. There are 198 ski lifts - so you won't need to queue - and 43 cable cars, ideal for getting a bird's eye view of the spectacular scenery.
Complete beginners might want to consider staying at La Tania, where the nursery slopes have a free lift, so you won't need to buy a lift pass until you've developed your confidence enough to tackle the more taxing slopes.
If you're hoping to take some tuition during your break, you'll find a good selection of ski schools in Courchevel, with lessons given in eight languages. Additionally, there is plenty of opportunity to have a go at some different sports if you want a break from skiing.
The resort boasts five snowboard parks, an ice rink and the chance to try snowshoeing, while on dry land you can hit the gym or go bowling. Meanwhile, because of its central position, Courchevel is well placed if you want to explore other renowned skiing areas, like Meribel, Les Menuires and Val Thoren.
The apres ski scene here is second to none, and you'll find plenty of bars as well as a nightclub if you're keen to have some fun away from the slopes. You might even make some new friends, as the resort has a high concentration of British skiers.
In terms of accommodation, Courchevel offers a good variety of chalets and lodges, especially if you're looking for a luxurious holiday home. Head to Courchevel 1850 for top of the range chalet apartments, or to Courchevel 1650 to make the most of the trendy atmosphere and chalets that include open fires and outdoor hot tubs.
You'll find plenty of on-site restaurants and cafes if you don't want to cook during your break, but to add a touch of luxury to your stay you could choose a chalet that offers the services of a chef. Enjoy a cooked breakfast in the morning, canapes and a four-course evening meal, as well as a selection of regional wines.
If you choose a high-spec chalet you can also take advantage of little extras, like complimentary toiletries, a fresh fruit bowl and midweek towel change to make your getaway memorable for all the right reasons.
