Alpes Hôtel du Pralong

Alpine elegance meets cozy convenience at this laid-back property with spectacular views.

• The old-school ski vibe
• The friendly, doting ski room staff
• The local gastronomic treats, like Génépi and honey, presented to guests upon arrival.
• The Aque de Parma amenities in the bathrooms.

While most Courchevel hotels are either contemporary, glitzy, too much of a scene or lacking in sense of place, Alpes Hôtel du Pralong brings a much needed dose of authentic, Alpine charm back to town. It’s owned by the Dokhan family (behind the Hotel de Berri and others in Paris), and the Dokhan brothers are often on property and take pride in the hotel’s homey, retro-chic ski vibe. For those who don’t like the glam of the new Courchevel and want something more old-fashioned and familial, Alpes Hôtel du Pralong is the place to stay. This hotel is one of the few where we saw multiple French families, undoubtedly because it’s so kid-friendly. There’s a Kids Club, an indoor pool, a game room, and—a rarity in the region—rooms with additional beds that can accommodate small families with thoughtful details like children’s robes.

As it’s higher up on the mountain, at 2000 meters, the views from the rooms are more expansive than at the other hotels. The hotel is ski-in/ski-out, located right next door to K2 Altitude, the 5-star K2, and only a few minutes up the hill from Le K2 Palace. There’s also a complimentary shuttle service to take you around. The property has 65 rooms, including nine suites, each with a view of the slopes. Rooms are simple and traditional but very comfortable and recently refreshed after a huge property refurbishment. (Bathrooms in the rooms, the spa and the Kids Club are tired, and due for a renovation in 2025, though the common areas, restaurant/bar and rooms feel fresh.) The only really odd component of the hotel is the art on the elevators (i.e. a painting of a snowman), which hopefully they will get rid of as they continue to redo, but for now, it’s simply quirky.

One of the biggest pluses of the Alpes Hôtel du Pralong is the ski room. Not only are the staff extremely accommodating—they lay out your skis and help you take your boots on and off—but they can also arrange ski instructors, offer on-site rentals, and sell lift tickets, making this the perfect choice for those who come to Courchevel first and foremost for the skiing.

Serious skiers and families looking for a more low-key, comfortable ski-centric property with all the amenities.