Features Mann Overboard

Where to Next in the French Alps: Winter Edition

Photo courtesy of Destination Designer

Brimming with understated elegance, Méribel, France has been enchanting travelers for decades. This picturesque village is a favorite winter destination for those seeking curated luxury without the adjacent Courchevel’s over-the-top glitz and party scene. With the 2019 arrival of the 5-star Hôtel Le Coucou, Méribel has caught the attention of the elite travel industry, and the thoughtfully designed Le Coucou brings a touch of bygone-era glamor to the pristine slopes of Les 3 Vallées.

Nestled at the base of the Rond-Point des pistes, Hôtel Le Coucou offers an unrivaled ski-in, ski-out experience in the center of the largest ski area on the globe. The harmonious integration of the hotel with the mountain terrain ensures that guests can immerse themselves in this winter wonderland without any unnecessary detours. Pledging to remain true to tradition and sophistication, Hôtel Le Coucou has flawlessly integrated its chic design and unparalleled attention to detail with authentic, exceptional alpine style.

Its stunning 55 rooms and two private chalets are impressive. Hôtel Le Coucou presents with the allure of a historic property but provides guests with every modern amenity and dedicated, unrivaled service. No detail is overlooked. Beautifully decorated and functional rooms with warm textiles envelop you in mountain charm. Comfortable furnishings, generously sized terraces or balconies, heated bathroom floors, plush linens and some of the most high-end welcome amenities we have seen. Think suede slippers, Hôtel Le Coucou branded wool ski socks, in case you forgot yours, and Pierre Hermé macarons. Not to mention, all rooms have a view, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. Additionally, there are options for connected rooms, making Hôtel Le Coucou an ideal choice for families or groups of friends.

Hôtel Le Coucou is family-friendly, and according to staff, “families are some of our most valued guests.” However, the hotel never feels over-run with children. A “Petit VIP” club is available for younger children. This professionally staff ed, fun space embraces a child’s creativity, providing endless indoor and outdoor activities from day to night. The “Teens Petit VIP” club is perfect for older kids and provides a hang-out space and activities such as cooking workshops and a mocktail drink lab. Private babysitting services are also available upon request.

With mountain sports naturally being the star of the show, Hôtel Le Coucou’s bespoke, full-service ski room is the best supporting actor. Conveniently run by friendly and knowledgeable staff , letting them help you hit the slopes is a pleasure. From top-of-the-line equipment rentals, custom fittings, to ski and gear storage with boot warmers, you are made to feel pampered before stepping foot on the mountain. Snacks and warm drinks are available pre and post-skiing, and the staff welcomes you every morning and is happy to see you return after a day on the slopes. Finally, they can arrange private or group lessons, and truly take the time to match you with the right instructors to ensure a personalized experience.

As a traveler from North America, skiing in the French Alps is a refreshing change, delivering a more experience-driven attitude, locally run mountainside restaurants that serve delicious, authentic food and no break-the-budget lift tickets, rentals or other costs and fees, which have become commonplace at American ski resorts. Hôtel Le Coucou’s responsive concierge team is at your disposal and can arrange any adventure from hot air balloon rides over Alpine Peaks, snowmobiling for the whole family, sledding, visiting the Olympic Parc or exploring vast hiking trails via snowshoe or by horseback.

After a thrilling day of adventures, whether for lunch or Hôtel Le Coucou’s lively après-ski, head to the outdoor terrace at on-site Beefbar and enjoy live music, incredible bites and cocktails with a view. The menu includes an array of hearty mountain fare; their K Burger and the melted Mont d’Or cheese are not to be missed.

Wellness is also at the forefront of Hôtel Le Coucou’s mission. Book a treatment at the Tata Harper Spa. Soothe tired muscles in the marvelously heated indoor and outdoor pools. A large fitness center offers top-of-the-line equipment, yoga and pilates classes, and private coaching sessions are available upon request. Situated close to the center of town, Le Coucou offers a shuttle service for easy access to nearby restaurants, and the hotel itself is home to three standouts. Beefbar provides a unique menu that lends itself to sharing, pleasing everyone. Biancaneve offers fine dining accompanied by nightly entertainment. While Le Fumoir serves local Savoyard fare, including raclette and fondue, in an intimate, cozy setting.

Le Coucou sets the standard for a ski-in, ski-out experience that seamlessly blends luxury, convenience and customized service. Every aspect of your stay is meticulously curated when you arrive to create a winter retreat that exceeds expectations. Hôtel Le Coucou does not just off er a place to stay; it provides a gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps and the comfort and opulence that defi ne a remarkable ski vacation.

To plan your custom itinerary to the Alps, contact The Destination Designer for the trip of a lifetime