Les Airelles is the fairy-tale palace of Courchevel 1850: a turreted, fresco-painted hotel in the Jardin Alpin with ski-in, ski-out access to the Three Valleys and the official French Palace distinction, awarded in its first round in 2011. If you want a ski honeymoon with full-scale luxury, it is one of the two or three obvious choices.
The look is Austro-Hungarian alpine, with carved wood, hand-painted ceilings, log fires and garnet carpets. Ski butlers warm your boots and carry your skis to the slope, so mornings start without the usual fumbling. Rates typically include half board and that can extend to some partner restaurants on the mountain, so lunch on the piste is part of the deal.
It suits couples who want to ski hard and live well, with a big spa and serious dining at the end of each day. Be aware that it is also popular with families, with an elaborate kids' club. With 44 rooms it is not huge, but the atmosphere is lively rather than hushed. The hotel opens only for the winter season, usually from early December into April.
Highlights at a glance
- Ski-in, ski-out on the Jardin Alpin in Courchevel 1850
- French Palace distinction
- Ski butlers and a large ski room
- La Mer spa with indoor pool and hot tub
- Half-board dining including partner mountain restaurants
Why Couples Choose Les Airelles
Location is first. The hotel sits on the Jardin Alpin, steps from the slopes, so you can ski out after breakfast and ski back for a late lunch. From there the lifts link into Méribel, Val Thorens and one of the largest connected ski areas in the world.
The service is the second reason. Ski butlers handle your boots and skis and staff keep track of how you like your day to run. The decor, with its frescoes and wood, feels like a theatrical version of an alpine castle, which many couples find romantic in a playful way. It is a place for a big celebration.
Rooms and Suites to Book
Les Airelles has 44 rooms and suites, plus a top-floor private apartment and private chalets for groups. Rooms have warm wood, low beamed ceilings in places, antiques and hand-painted details. Many look up toward the Saulire summit.
For a honeymoon, a suite with a mountain view is worth the extra. Ski holidays mean a lot of time indoors in the evening, so a sitting area by the window makes a difference. Ask for a room away from the family areas and the kids' club if quiet matters. Book early for Christmas, New Year and February, when European school holidays fill the resort.
Food, Drink and the Spa
Dining is a major part of the experience. La Table des Airelles serves breakfast, dinner and a lavish lunch spread. Le Coin Savoyard is the place for fondue and raclette by the fire. The hotel also runs an Italian restaurant and half board can extend to partner restaurants on the slopes, such as Le Chalet de Pierres, so you can stop for lunch mid-run. Venues change between seasons, so check the current lineup before you go.
The spa uses La Mer products and has an indoor pool with waterfalls, an outdoor hot tub, a hammam and a sauna. After a long day on the slopes, a couples massage and a soak are close to essential.
Why guests fall for it
Things to Do
Skiing is the main event, but there is plenty for a rest day.
- Ski the Three Valleys, from gentle blues to the steep couloirs of La Saulire.
- Hire a private instructor or guide for off-piste days.
- Take a sleigh ride or snowshoe walk in the forest.
- Shop and people-watch in Courchevel 1850's village center.
- Book a paraglide over the valley.
For a less sporty partner, the spa, the village and long lunches can fill a day well. Altitude, sun and cold can be tiring, so drink water and wear sunscreen even on cloudy days.
Getting There
Geneva Airport (GVA) is the main gateway from the US, about two and a half to three hours by car depending on traffic and snow. Chambéry (CMF) is about an hour and a half away, with seasonal flights. Lyon (LYS) is another option.
The nearest train station is Moûtiers, about 30 minutes below the resort, with TGV and Eurostar connections in season. The hotel can arrange private transfers and Courchevel's altiport handles private planes and helicopters for a dramatic arrival. Saturday is changeover day in the Alps and roads can be slow, so travel midweek if you can.
Is It Worth It?
For couples who want a full-service luxury ski honeymoon, yes. The ski-in location, the butlers, the spa and the half-board dining make each day effortless and the palace setting is memorable.
It is very expensive and families are a big part of the guest mix, so it is not the quietest choice. Couples who want a more intimate feel might prefer a private catered chalet or a smaller hotel in Courchevel Moriond or Le Praz. Those who mainly want to ski may find better value lower in the valley. But if you want to celebrate in style on the slopes, Les Airelles delivers.
Insider tips
- Ask for a suite away from the family areas for quieter evenings.
- Go in January or March for fewer crowds than February.
- Confirm what half board covers on the mountain before you ski out.
- Book private instructors early for peak weeks.
