Ski In, Ski Out: A Winter’s Guide To The French Alps
Winter in the French Alps means three things: charming villages, glorious snow-capped peaks, and world-class slopes. But that’s not all: elevated eateries, buzzy nightlife, snow-dusted chalets, and luxury hotels with knockout views also beckon ski bunnies who flock in droves for a taste of the season’s splendor (epic après and live music included). Below, a handful of our favorite hotels, restaurants, and bars.
Nestled in the Three Valleys at the foot of Bellecôte run, this iconic hotel hosts 42 rooms decked with warm wooden ceilings and soft fur throws. Downstairs, Fouquet’s Brasserie offers the classics while the red-hued BFire by Mauro Colagreco features Argentinian smoky, wood-fired plates. Don’t miss lunch at La Terrasse des Neiges, the ski-in, ski-out spot known to host a rollicking afternoon DJ session. Day off? Retreat to the spa or dip into the indoor pool.
Adresse: 422 Rue de Bellecôte, 73120 Courchevel, France. Ph: +33 4 57 55 22 00
This warm, timber-and-stone eatery complete with string lights and sexy mirrors features chef Romain Colinet’s creatively-plated grilled meat and seafood dishes alongside chef Jean-Phillipe Baudru decadent desserts. In the meantime, the handsome bar, open until 1 am, makes an ideal spot to saddle up for the entire Komos family. Also available: an always revolving act of live and local musicians.
Address: 137 Av. Olympique, 73150 Val-d'Isère, France. Ph: +33 4 79 06 18 19
Channel a ye old fairytale inside this luxe, antique-filled, 41-room hotel. Score a table on the outside terrace of Loulou, the buzzy eatery where chef Benoît Dargere’s Italian plates lean on Piedmont Valley – pistachio linguine and truffle pizza for starters, and paired with breathtaking views. Afterward, drop by the cigar lounge and relax with a glass of Komos. Later, consider warming up in the hotel’s indoor pool and sauna. Naturally, an après ski crowd gathers outside where a resident DJ spins a hot selection of post-ski beats.
Adresse: 145 Rue de la Poste, 73150 Val-d'Isère, France. Ph: +33 4 79 22 22 22
Set at the foot of the famed Face de Bellevarde Olympic slope, known for its fabled Alpine black run, this 76-room hotel is known for its Scandinavian meets-American Lodge-meets-Alpine chalet accommodations. The Michelin-starred La Table de l’Ours serves regional eats; while La Rôtisserie offers spit-roasted meats coupled with hearty wines. Drop by the Sofa Bar for a glass of Komos (fireside is always best). More diversions? There’s a cigar cellar, game room, and bowling alley. This winter, an evening writer and storyteller series is held in the literary salon.
Address: Mnt de Bellevarde, 73150 Val-d'Isère, France. Ph: +33 4 79 41 37 00
Known as the Alps’ highest ski resort; this modern 88-room hotel is decked out with Scandinavian blonde woods, heavy timbers, patchwork tiles, and taxidermy. Drop by the inviting lobby bar for Komos cocktails and conversation. Farm fresh fondues, raclettes and a bang-up wine list lives at La Laiterie; while Casa Alta is a chic spot for Italian fare. The weary-limbed can enjoy one of the spa’s seven treatment rooms. Fashion? An onsite ski shop is stocked with plenty of stylish garb.
Address: Rue du bouchet, 73440 Val Thorens, France. Ph: +33 4 80 36 80 36
A warm, rustic spot serving Asian-inspired dishes such as poke bowls and skewered meats. There are also Italian touches – ravioli with lobster and assorted pizzas with unique toppings; try the Savoyarde with cream, bacon, potatoes, reblochon, and onion. Of course for dessert, the coffee tiramisu pairs well with Komos Anejo Reserva. As for the views – it’s nothing but snow-covered mountains and fresh powder for days.
Address: Résidence l’Oxalys, 73440 Val Thorens, France. PH: +33 4 79 23 26 58
Beloved for its picture windows framing the mountains, this chic and bustling French brasserie-inspired eatery offers the classics alongside a raw bar and local specialities like raclette with savoy milk; and Savoyard fondue with your choice of truffles and porcini mushrooms. Like all good endings (or beginnings), shaken Komos cocktails are always an excellent idea on the sunny terrace, while soaking up equally excellent views.
Address: Rue de Caron, 73440 Les Belleville, France, Phone: +33 4 79 00 00 48
Les grandes Rousses 5 Alpes D’huez
In the heart of Alpe d’Huez, this timber-clad, family-owned hotel features a mix of 77 airy lofts, chalets and suites. To eat, La Ferme d'Hubert draws inspiration from nature and highlights local alpine grub. Wind down in the wood-and-stone outfitted spa or enjoy a proper Nordic bath and sauna. On the terrace, cozy up with some bubbles inside the small wood and glass chalets, inspired by old Savoyard mazots (once used to preserve cured meats).
The best way to reach this cozy, lunch-only mountainside eatery perched on the edge of the Mangard piste is, of course, by skis. Inside you’ll be rewarded with heaping plates of homemade foie gras, local charcuterie, and a tasty Beaufort cheese tart. Now, if you’re really hungry, the hearty duck burger with decadent foie gras pairs well with a crisp white wine.
Address: 73150 Val-d'Isère, France, Phone: +33 6 10 28 70 64
