At the heart of the French Alps, Cheval Blanc Courchevel has been designed as a refuge like no other; an intimate and welcoming hotel and a very special place in which to meet and submit to luxury. Tucked away in the resort of Courchevel 1850, this Palace offers skiers direct access to the pistes of the Three Valleys, the world’s largest continuous skiable area. But you don’t need to be a champion to appreciate the spirit of this place.
11 pm: The white magic weaves its spell the moment you arrive
The winter cold is biting, and the snow flutters down in total silence. But the hotel is in view. Whether for one night or a few days, the moment we step over the threshold, we are enveloped in peaceful warmth. Every December since 2006, this grand chalet has opened its doors to welcome guests until spring is sprung.
10 am: A cocoon of a room
When you awake, this is a wonderful place to linger in cocooning heaven… Every one of the 36 Cheval Blanc Courchevel rooms and suites has its own unique role to play in architect Sybille de Margerie's desire to revisit the identity traits of the mountains. The materials - cashmere, fur, leather - are simultaneously sophisticated and sensual, complemented by superb colour harmonies and real attention to detail. What’s the best thing? The profusion of natural daylight and that view... breathtaking from every terrace and balcony.
11 am: A walk in the freshest of air
It’s time to explore the huge alpine garden. Perhaps on a dog sled, perhaps on skis. Ideally located at the foot of the slopes, the Ski Service boutique offers the latest and most innovative skis and boots. For the ultimate sliding experience, a special pair of Cheval Blanc skis has been designed and produced in partnership with Lacroix Skis. Performance and intense excitement guaranteed!
3 pm: Comfort and sheer bliss by Guerlain
Warm up in the depths of winter and rise above the everyday world by taking a voyage through the senses and sensation... Cheval Blanc and Guerlain have developed an exclusive collection of treatments and massages specifically designed for winter sports. Four treatment rooms and an exclusive salon for two await... But what’s the best part of the spa? The Salon Orchidée, totally dedicated to the prestigious Orchidée Impériale range of treatments. Ultimate bliss!
5 pm: Let the water work its magic
As if carved from the rock of the mountain itself, the spa pool is an invitation to let go. Watching the snow fall as you slip into the main pool or curling up in the Jacuzzi is definitely one of the most relaxing things ever. Need more action? An aquabiking session is a great way to prepare gently for your next downhill.
7 pm: Fireside bar
For the first coffee of the morning, a gourmet snack or, like this evening, a drink to music before dinner, the Bar brings Cheval Blanc guests together in an atmosphere so relaxed it’s just like being at home. Every week, events and parties are hosted here to celebrate the pleasures of a stay in the mountains. It’s all surprises...
8 pm: A 3 Michelin star dinner in Le 1947
Did you know? Le 1947 takes its name from the most prestigious vintage of Château Cheval Blanc. For this exceptional restaurant rewarded with 3 stars by the Michelin Guide, Chef Yannick Alléno shifts the boundaries to offer a completely unique fine dining experience. Because dining here is almost a family event (Le 1947 welcomes only 22 diners every evening), everyone is welcome to visit the kitchen and discover a few of the secrets behind their meal…
10 pm: End the evening in the yurt
Generous armchairs, fur rugs and low solid wood tables decorate the Smoking Room outside the Bar. In this authentic Mongolian yurt redecorated to create an environment so warm and welcoming that the noise of the world seems far away, purists will be delighted to discover an exclusive selection of cigars and spirits before returning to the cocoon of their room.
By Pascale Filliâtre
Journalist-traveller. I often voyage to the end of the world to explore what France offers... just next door. filliatre.pascale@orange.fr
