Solis Travel

This Christmas season, Chelsea Muscroft, founder of Solis Travel, embarked on a winter getaway to the stunning French Alps, where she experienced the ultimate in luxury, snow, and festive spirit. From the world-class accommodations at Six Senses Courchevel and Les Neiges Barrière Courchevel to the delightful holiday charm of the village, Chelsea’s trip was nothing short of magical. Here, she shares the highlights of her time in the French Alps—an unforgettable journey of snow-covered slopes, mouthwatering gastronomic delights, wellness indulgence, and holiday cheer.

Six Senses Courchevel: A Luxurious Alpine Escape

Chelsea’s journey began with a stay at Six Senses Courchevel, a spectacular five-star retreat nestled into the snowy mountainside. The resort is renowned for its wellness offerings, and it didn’t disappoint. From the moment she arrived, Chelsea was welcomed by the warm and attentive staff and the crisp Alpine air. The hotel’s design is a perfect blend of modern luxury and traditional Alpine charm, featuring wood, stone, and glass elements that reflect the surrounding natural beauty.

Six Senses is all about well-being, and after a day on the mountain there is nothing better than taking full advantage of the property’s stunning spa and sauna offerings.

At Christmas, Six Senses Courchevel truly shines. The hotel was beautifully decorated with festive touches, from twinkling lights to elegant Christmas trees placed in the lobby and in every room.

While Six Senses Courchevel is not a ski-in, ski-out resort, it offers a seamless skiing experience thanks to its ski lodge located at the base of the mountain. After a short transfer, guests can drop off their gear and be fully taken care of at the lodge. Ski equipment is ready and waiting for you, and the attentive staff is on hand to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, the ski lodge ensures you’re all set to hit the slopes without a hitch.

Les Neiges Barrière Courchevel: The Definition of Luxury

If there’s one property that embodies the essence of luxury in the French Alps, it’s Les Neiges Barrière Courchevel. Chelsea was absolutely enchanted by the charm, service, and style of this exquisite hotel, calling it one of the best hotels she has ever stayed at, and that says a lot. The moment you step into Les Neiges Barrière, you are enveloped by the perfect blend of Alpine elegance and contemporary luxury. The hotel combines chic, modern design with timeless mountain aesthetics, creating a sense of warmth and grandeur that makes you feel like you've entered a private, luxurious world.

Every aspect of the hotel—from the attentive service to the impeccable design—is crafted to make you feel pampered. The staff here are exceptional, going above and beyond to ensure guests’ needs are met, and the personalized service adds an extra level of comfort that makes the stay feel truly special. Whether it's arranging your ski gear or recommending the best après-ski spots, the staff at Les Neiges are always on hand with a smile, creating an atmosphere of effortless luxury.

In terms of style, the hotel oozes sophistication. The interiors are designed with a perfect balance of glamour and warmth—think plush velvet lounges, cozy fire-lit corners, and elegant wood paneling. Chelsea highlighted the beautiful attention to detail throughout the hotel, from the tastefully decorated rooms to the curated artwork that adorns the walls, and a masterpiece fireplace. The design feels both elevated and inviting, striking the perfect balance between luxury and the relaxed, comforting ambiance of a mountain retreat.

Located right on the slopes, this hotel offers direct access to the world-renowned Courchevel ski runs. Courchevel Tourism and the Three Valleys ski area make this destination a skier’s paradise.

Skiset Courchevel ensures that ski equipment is effortlessly managed, providing top-quality gear for every guest.

The Deluxe Suite at Les Neiges invites you to enjoy the French art of living with your own butler.

Dining at Les Neiges Lou Lou: A Culinary Masterpiece

Chelsea was also blown away by the dining experience at Les Neiges Lou Lou, the signature restaurant of Les Neiges Barrière Courchevel. Known for its exceptional take on French Alpine cuisine, this restaurant is a feast for the senses. Chelsea described the flavours as rich, comforting, and complex, with each dish a perfect balance of local ingredients and expert preparation.

A standout dish was the famous truffle pizza, this is a must try. Chelsea also praised the wine list, which featured a carefully curated selection of the best regional and French wines to complement the menu. Dining at Les Neiges Lou Lou was not just a meal—it was an experience, with every bite showcasing the artistry of French culinary tradition.

Ski directly into some the worlds best shopping and restaurants.

Skiing in Courchevel and the Three Valleys: A Vast Winter Playground

A highlight of Chelsea’s trip was, of course, the skiing. Courchevel, part of the Three Valleys ski area, offers some of the best slopes in the Alps, with over 600 kilometers of terrain stretching across multiple resorts. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate skier, or seasoned expert, the Three Valleys has something for everyone.

Courchevel itself is a standout destination, with a vast variety of slopes catering to all levels of experience. Chelsea attempted to spend her days cruising down the beautifully groomed pistes, enjoying gentle runs, while soaking in the spectacular Alpine views. As part of the Three Valleys, Courchevel offers access to an enormous variety of ski areas, so you can easily venture to neighbouring Méribel, Val Thorens, and beyond, exploring a diverse array of slopes and snow conditions. Whether you’re carving down wide blue runs or tackling the steep black slopes, the options seem endless.

The atmosphere in Courchevel, and throughout the Three Valleys, is unmistakably French—a mix of elegance and joy, with skiers and snowboarders enjoying the thrill of the slopes while embracing the laid-back luxury of the region. The vibe on the mountain is festive yet sophisticated, creating an environment that’s truly unique. The French truly know how to create a vibe.

Hot Tip: Stop by Annecy on Your Way to the Alps

For anyone heading to Courchevel, Chelsea shared an invaluable travel tip: take a detour to the stunning town of Annecy. Known as the "Venice of the Alps," Annecy is a charming lakeside town with canals, cobblestone streets, and a picturesque old town. During the holiday season, the town comes alive with festive decorations and Christmas markets, making it a perfect place to explore before heading to the mountains. Chelsea recommends spending a few hours wandering the streets, sampling local delicacies, and enjoying the seasonal cheer of Annecy.

Final Thoughts: The French Alps – The Next Must-Visit Ski Destination for Australians

Chelsea’s journey through the French Alps was a reminder of just how spectacular this region is for both luxury and adventure. With incredible properties like Six Senses Courchevel, where wellness meets skiing, and Les Neiges Barrière, offering a true definition of Alpine luxury, the French Alps deliver an unforgettable experience.

But it’s the whole region that truly stands out as an exceptional ski destination for Australian travellers. The Three Valleys, the largest interconnected ski area in the world, offers something for every skier or snowboarder—whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the French Alps are an unmatched playground for winter sports enthusiasts.

Beyond the slopes, the charm of villages like Courchevel and Méribel, with their festive ambiance, Michelin-starred restaurants, and stunning Alpine scenery, make it a destination worth exploring beyond just the skiing. Whether it’s indulging in world-class French cuisine, relaxing in a luxurious spa, or shopping in chic boutiques, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your time off the mountain.

For Australian travelers looking to add an element of glamour and adventure to their ski trips, the French Alps should be at the top of their list. With its combination of top-tier resorts, beautiful snow-covered landscapes, and rich cultural charm, the French Alps offer a unique and exhilarating experience that no other destination can match. It’s time to make this iconic winter haven your next ski escape.

A Magical French Alps Christmas: Chelsea Muscroft’s Winter Wonderland at Six Senses and Les Neiges Barrière Courchevel