Chalet Blanchot

Courchevel’s star shines brightly these days. Other resorts tend to grumble enviously and complain that this particular part of the French Alps has become too big for its Prada ski boots. Conspicuous consumption is something that Courchevel seems purpose-built for and you’ll find plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants and chic bars to choose from. Yet all this focus on the resort’s glitz and glamour overlooks one crucial factor: Courchevel offers an unparalleled choice of skiing for all levels. And at beautiful Chalet Blanchot, it’s right on your doorstep.

The peaceful hamlet of Belvedere is a couple of chauffeur-driven minutes from the centre of the resort, so if you want to join with the high-altitude High Life of Courchevel then it’s only moments away. If it’s rest and relaxation you seek, then Chalet Blanchot offers a peaceful and comfortable setting in which you can unwind with family and friends. The facilities and services are a match for anything in the resort, but the tone of this Swiss-style chalet is calm and muted, emphasised by the use of rich, natural fabrics, local stone and heavy timbers.

Chalet Blanchot sleeps a total of 12 guests – though with a children’s bunkroom and a mezzanine bedroom with low ceilings it’s ideal for eight adults and four children. Five of the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, and all are snug and cosy. Egyptian cotton sheets, goose-down duvets, fluffy bathrobes and traditional Alpine flourishes such as carved wood and vintage posters show that no detail has been overlooked.

Breakfast and afternoon tea are also provided; the balcony overlooking the slopes is the ideal location on a sunny day. The main living and dining area is a great place to gather in the evening, and enjoy a dinner party at a large dining table beneath the antler chandelier. A chalet chef is available on request, although it’s possible to hire the chalet on a self-catered basis as well. The sitting room next to the fireplace is rustic yet chic, with brown wool sofas and soft leather armchairs. A DVD library and a large selection of books and games will keep everyone entertained.

There’s a real treat on the lower ground floor; Chalet Blanchot has an excellent spa with a hammam and hot tub. Ambient lighting can be adjusted to suit your mood, and massage and beauty treatments can be booked by the chalet staff for you. There’s also a fantastic cinema room next door where you can watch your favourite films. There’s a small kitchen here, too, and a bar made from a gigantic piece of timber (apparently the chalet had to be built around it). With all these facilities at your disposal, it might be tempting to take a break from Courchevel’s celebrated razzmatazz. But if you want to venture into the resort, then the chalet manager can recommend and book the best restaurants and nightclubs.

Whatever pace you choose to enjoy your stay, you can rest assured that your chalet manager is available to ensure a stress-free holiday. Ski passes can be arranged in advance; in-chalet ski fitting can be organised, and the very best mountain guides and ski instructors can be booked. If you’re traveling with children, then the chalet is fully equipped with everything you may need – and nannies and babysitters are on call. Everything is done, so you can focus on the mammoth task of exploring the 400 miles of ski runs in the Trois Vallées and sampling a wealth of other Alpine sports.