At a Glance
The Cheval Blanc is as smooth as the wine produced on the brand’s vineyards in Bordeaux, offering perhaps the best interiors in Courchevel (a stylish take on traditional alpine) and a cool, swanky ambiance.
Indagare Loves
- Interior design of the rooms, a sleek rendition of the classic Savoyard chalet
- Buzzing public spaces, particularly the bar where master mixologists cook up interesting cocktails
- Cozy, intimate spa, gym and pool sanctuary
Review
The top hotel in Courchevel is the glitzy 34-room Cheval Blanc, owned by French businessman Bernard Arnault. The hotel is a superluxe spot (with prices to match), and judging from the giant mirrored horse outside the lobby, subtlety is not the goal. But the glitz and glamour works effortlessly; rooms and suites are decorated in a mish-mash of sumptuous fabrics (velvet, leather, fur), and all feature floor-to-ceiling windows and either a balcony or terrace. Walls are done up in a similar fashion, with vibrant cuckoo clocks keeping time next to photographs commissioned by Karl Lagerfeld. The top suite, which Arnault uses when in residence, has its own private elevator and four bedrooms, sleeping eight in all. For families that want to feel a bit removed, there is also a three-bedroom chalet directly connected to the hotel.
Luxurious extras include a Guerlain spa (try the avant-ski or après-ski massage, and don’t miss the “emotion shower,” which features light effects and a view of the slopes). There are also two restaurants (one with three Michelin stars), a bar, an in-house ski service for equipment rentals, a fabulous kids club and LVMH-owned shops. And fear not, the pampering continues outside the confines of the hotel; each morning, staffers ready guests’ ski equipment (heated boots and all), and send them armed with gourmet goodies for a day on the slopes.
Who Should Stay
Couples and families who can appreciate the chic design aesthetic and hip setting.
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