This Chic Ski Destination Is a Favorite Vacation Spot of the Royal Family
French Alps resort Courchevel has long been dubbed the world’s ski capital, thanks to its prime location in Les Trois Vallées (the largest linked ski areas in the world). With a glitzy atmosphere, lavish shopping, and Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s no surprise that royals, celebrities, and affluent families flock from all over the world to visit. In the 1980s, Princess Caroline went with her first husband Philippe Junot to the posh ski resort. Since then, William and Kate, Pippa Middleton, the Beckhams, Kate Moss, and many others have favored the popular ski spot.
Most of them stay at Les Airelles in Courchevel, the highest and largest of the four villages in Courchevel. The brand’s eponymous portfolio is also home to Airelles Château de Versailles - Le Grand Contrôle, which is the only hotel on the palace’s grounds, along with Les Airelles in Val d’Isere, a new celebrity hotspot. However, the Courchevel property is known to be wildly popular with British royals, including Will and Kate, the Prince and Princess of Wales, who were spotted and photographed at the hotel in 2016.
The resort is nestled in the heart of Jardin Alpin (a spot that’s known to be the chicest area of the Courchevel) and is surrounded by snow-filled pine trees and breathtaking mountain views. Housed within a gorgeous building, it has a pink frescoed exterior and ornately carved balconies, lit with twinkling lights. With the added layer of snow, it looks like something straight out of a (very chic) Christmas movie.
The hotel founder was inspired by Empress Elizabeth of Austria (who was known for her beauty and fashion sense), and interior designer Christophe Tollemer paid homage to that with his design. The hotel's spaces feature open fireplaces, red velvet sofas, and doors adorned with carved motifs that are all meant to highlight Austrian glamour. All of the 48 rooms range from a one-bedroom room overlooking the slopes to a private apartment with fireplaces, picturesque views, and an in-room hammam to warm up after a day spent outdoors.
However, you’ll likely find celebrities and royals renting out Chalet Ormello, a secluded nine-bedroom retreat. The chalet features simple, natural materials alongside colorful textiles and wood-burning fireplaces to make the space feel cozy. It has panoramic views of the mountain, a dedicated chalet manager, private chef, butler, and an exclusive ski room. There's also a private well-being area with an indoor pool, hammam, and jacuzzi, along with a gym and cinema room.
After a day on the slopes, the expansive property has plenty to offer—including four restaurants, alongside a La Mer spa, hairdresser, and state-of-the-art fitness center. This winter, the resort has partnered with one of the world’s best patissiers, Cedric Grolet, to oversee the creation of all the onsite pastries and desserts for the property. He has also created exclusive options specifically for the hotel.
As the best-located hotel in the prestigious winter spot, the property doesn’t cut corners on the main attraction: skiing. Those who stay onsite have early access to the prestigious slopes with a special onsite experience. However, a personal ski butler will greet you with a freshly baked pastry as you slip on your snow boots—even if you're not a royal.
They’ll also help outfit you with the sleekest protective equipment. If skiing isn’t your thing, there are also helicopter rides, snowmobiling, dog sledding, horse-drawn carriage rides, and night sledding to help you take advantage of the pristine natural scenery.
Whether you visit for the fabulous apres ski or to take advantage of some of the best slopes in the world, a winter escape to Les Airelles is fit for royalty. With the luxe accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and expansive offerings, it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite of both royals and celebrities.
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