Few areas and ski resorts in the world have the same level of popularity and broad appeal as the French Alps. Not only does it cater to those seeking a healthy dose of luxury, but there are also plenty of resorts that offer affordable options for those looking to enjoy a skiing holiday on a budget.
Today, we’re going to glide through some of the main things to expect as you embark on your first luxury holiday in the French Alps, as well as some of our personal tips to make the most of your trip. If you're interested in getting some ski plans underway, get in touch with Ski Peak now.
Combining your experiences
It doesn’t matter if you are looking to take a trip to the Alps in France or Switzerland, or the Alps in New Zealand; many people who enjoy a skiing trip want to combine activities to make the most of their holiday.
Some visitors will look for high-end restaurants near their resort, while others will go out of their way to ensure that their accommodations are the highlight of their stay. Others prefer to look for nightlife, ranging from bars to entertainment. While the landscape of some of these activities has changed over the last couple of decades, with online websites now channeling a lot of this intrigue, there are still many factors that skiers consider when planning their trip.
While the idea of playing certain games is no longer location-dependent, with many gamers now being able to discover no deposit bonus casinos via their smartphones, there’s plenty to be said for a luxury skiing holiday that combines the social elements of the nightlife with the camaraderie of the ski slopes, and allowing those with a passion for skiing to disconnect and enjoy the snow.
Luxury ski trips also cater to high-end tastes, with France being one of the global centers of fashion. It’s no surprise that Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior and Givenchy, to name a few, are among the prominent brands. Depending on the level of luxury you are seeking, some of these trips can come with a personal shopper and local guides who offer a tailor-made experience of luxury that you won’t forget in a hurry.
Different luxuries for different guests
The idea of a luxury ski holiday can take many forms. For some people, it starts as soon as they land at either Grenoble, Chambery or Lyon. As soon as the wheels touch the tarmac, they expect luxury. Concierge services are often spotted at these airports, with luxury minivans and high-end, expensive chauffeurs whisking away the VIPs who have just landed for their trip.
These pick-up packages often include amenities, so you can order food or drink the moment you land which will be available in the vehicle. You can also request that the driver stop off at a restaurant or go through a drive-thru, or, if you’ve had a long flight, you can request that the lights be dimmed and have a nap before you arrive at your hotel.
Once you arrive at your hotel or your accommodations, staff will be poised to cater to your every need, whether you are staying at a 5-star resort situated in Courchevel 1850, with its pick of elite chalets and 5-star hotels, Laid back luxury in Vaujany (Alpe d'Huez), or Val d’Isère, known for its black-rated La Face de Bellevarde, as well as the Grande Motte Glacier, which has made a number of headlines as one of the most eco-friendly resorts.
Some hotels offer 24/7 service, where you have a person to contact for all your queries. Luxury Airbnb-style accommodations won’t have the same tailored approach. Although self-catered apartments have often been the accommodation of choice for those skiing on a budget, and those opting for something more luxurious, there’s a growing demand for luxury, expensive Airbnb-style houses to have butlers, cleaners and chauffeurs available.
Getting out on the slopes
As you can already tell, the idea of a luxury trip isn’t just about your skiing experience — it’s a customized touch to every aspect of your vacation. However, given that skiing is the bedrock of the trip, luxury ski holidays will often include private instructors exclusively for you, your friends and your family.
Often, they will speak to you in advance, and have a set route you can go on, which ensures that all of the skiers in the group can stick together. As part of the package, you will be given your ski lift passes as soon as you enter the changing area. Many of these companies also offer a personalized approach to gear fitting, to ensure you have the best fit before you venture out.
I’ve been lost in the Alps before, stranded apart from the group, and believe me, it wasn’t a pleasant experience. If you are paying top dollar for your luxury trip, then your instructor or guide will leave no stone unturned to ensure you do not suffer the same misfortune that I did.
Kim Kardashian has been known to rent out ski resorts for her own private use, as have many other celebrities and the ultra-rich. However, this hasn’t stopped people from viewing their skiing online and offering pointers, safety tips and criticism. If you are staying at one of the pricier resorts, don’t be surprised to see a celebrity or two on your vacation.
Summary
The main takeaway from today should be that you can expect to be waited on hand and foot if you have the financial capacity to book an all-expenses-paid trip to the French Alps. Even budget ski trips do not come cheap, so luxury resorts are in high demand, with many booking up to a year in advance as skiers anticipate the next ski season.
There are many beautiful resorts scattered across the French Alps, with many skiers undecided on which one they believe reigns supreme. One thing that can be said for sure: there’s no shortage of beautiful, luxurious resorts that will take your breath away, and with so many resources online to help you research your decision, there’s never been a better time to book a luxury trip to one of the world’s most scenic and sought-after ski regions.
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