Ski the French Alps: Stay at Le Strato in Courchevel

Welcome to one of the most exclusive ski destinations in the world. Courchevel, created in the late 1940s, is part of Les Trois Vallées, set in the French Alps. It’s composed of towns named for their altitude in meters, including Courchevel 1300 (Le Praz), Courchevel 1550, Courchevel 1650 (Moriond), and Courchevel 1850.

The latter of these is the most swank, and where you can discover lavish 5-star hotels like Le Strato. Owned and run by the Boix-Vives family, known for building one of the first ski lifts in Courchevel and the former owners of iconic brand Rossignol, Le Strato feels at once cozy and regal, a utopian mountain chalet where you can breathe in the alpine air at the most advantageous altitude, while refining your skiing. With 25 hillside rooms and suites, each uniquely designed and decorated, and with the option of a private two-bedroom chalet, Le Strato caters to both couples and families. A majestic winter wonderland for all ages and levels of ski aficionados.

Feast your eyes not only on the views. With young chef Lowell Mesnier at the helm of the Baumanière 1850 restaurant, a spin-off of two-Michelin starred chef Jean-André Charial’s L’Oustau de Baumanière in Provence, prepare to dine on seasonally refined dishes combining land and sea. Alaskan crab, Galician sea urchin, suckling pig and truffle all make an appearance in his artful presentations. Save room for dessert, including the heavenly millefeuille.

When it comes to relaxation, a Sothys branded spa has just the recipe. Using essential oils for their signature ‘Le Strato’ massage, both body and mind reach a state of complete bliss. Afterwards you can float from the hammam to the sauna and sink into the lush pool while taking in views of the mountaintops. Reach the utmost level of zen with a poolside yoga class taught by the top-notch instructor.

With the high altitude also comes high-end shopping. In addition to an exclusive selection of Rossignol skis and skiwear, the Strato Shop offers custom collectible items including shoes by Stan Smith, one-of-a-kind jewels using Swarovski crystals and Richard Orlinski’s bear, also the hotel’s adorable mascot. Discover too, decorative creations by designer duet “Les Héritiers”. At Courchevel village become starry-eyed at carefully curated boutique Bernard Orcel and glamorous jeweler Boucheron. Don’t bother trying to leave empty handed.

Combined with the ease of skiing directly from the chalet, a restaurant worth the climb up 1850 meters and a spa that will awaken all your senses, the luxurious Le Strato is a destination that merits all five of its stars.

Le Strato, Rue de Bellecôte, tel:+33(0)4 79 41 51 60. Website: www.hotelstrato.com. Open from December 9th to April 2nd. Half and full board rates available.