Airelles Courchevel

Airelles Courchevel
Name	Airelles Courchevel
Location	Courchevel, Savoie, France
Opening date	2020
Developer	Airelles Collection
Architect	Christophe Tollemer

Airelles Courchevel. Nestled within the prestigious Three Valleys ski area in the French Alps, Airelles Courchevel is a luxury alpine hotel that opened in December 2020. Part of the Airelles Collection, it is renowned for its opulent chalet-style architecture, exceptional gastronomy led by renowned chefs, and unparalleled ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes of Courchevel 1850. The property embodies a blend of traditional Savoyard craftsmanship and contemporary luxury, positioning itself as a leading destination for high-end winter tourism.

History

The development of Airelles Courchevel was spearheaded by the Airelles Collection, a group known for acquiring and transforming historic properties like Le Grand Contrôle and La Bastide de Gordes. The hotel's construction and launch in late 2020 occurred during a period of significant investment in the luxury infrastructure of Courchevel, an area long frequented by international elites and royalty. Its opening reinforced the resort's status alongside other famed alpine destinations such as Gstaad and St. Moritz. The project involved collaboration with local artisans and international design firms to create an atmosphere that pays homage to the region's heritage while meeting modern expectations of luxury hospitality.

Architecture and design

The architectural vision was led by Christophe Tollemer, who designed the property to resemble a grand, authentic Savoyard chalet. The extensive use of aged wood, stone, and antique furnishings sourced from across Europe creates a sense of timeless elegance. Interior design firm Festen Architecture oversaw the lavish interiors, which feature details like hand-carved wood panels, vintage Hermès trunks, and custom-made crystal chandeliers. The design narrative draws inspiration from the golden age of alpine travel, evoking the grandeur of historic European palaces and the cozy intimacy of a private mountain lodge, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape of the Vanoise National Park.

Accommodations and amenities

The hotel offers 55 rooms, suites, and private apartments, many featuring fireplaces, balconies, and panoramic views of the Bellecôte glacier. Signature amenities include a 1,500-square-meter wellness center, L'Alpage Spa, which houses a vast indoor pool, a Hammam, and treatment rooms offering products by Biologique Recherche. A unique private ice-skating rink and a dedicated children's area, La Petite Airelle, provide family entertainment. For ski enthusiasts, the hotel provides a state-of-the-art ski room with equipment from premium brands like Fusalp and direct access to the Courchevel ski lifts, facilitating exploration of the vast Three Valleys domain.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy is a cornerstone of the experience, overseen by three-Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire. The flagship restaurant, **Pierre Gagnaire pour Airelles**, offers inventive French haute cuisine. Additional venues include **Le Coin Savoyard** for traditional alpine dishes, **La Table de Airelles** for casual all-day dining, and the exclusive **Le Bar**, which serves rare vintages and cocktails. The culinary program emphasizes locally sourced ingredients from the Savoie region, including cheeses from nearby valleys and game from the surrounding forests, creating a refined yet authentic taste of the French Alps.

Location and access

The hotel enjoys a prime ski-in/ski-out position in the heart of Courchevel 1850, the most exclusive sector of the Courchevel resort within the Three Valleys. The area is served by the Courchevel Altiport, one of the world's most challenging airports, facilitating access for private aviation. Major international gateways include Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport and Geneva Airport, with helicopter transfers available. Its location places guests within minutes of high-end boutiques from houses like Louis Vuitton and Prada, as well as the vibrant aprés-ski scene for which the French Alps are famous.

Awards and recognition

Since its opening, Airelles Courchevel has garnered significant acclaim within the luxury travel industry. It has been recognized by prestigious guides and publications such as Forbes Travel Guide, which awarded it a Five-Star rating, and Condé Nast Traveller, which included it in hot lists. The hotel's spa and culinary offerings have also received separate accolades, reinforcing its status as a top-tier destination comparable to other legendary properties in the Airelles Collection and setting a benchmark for alpine hospitality.

Category:Luxury hotels Category:Hotels in France Category:Buildings and structures in Savoie