The no-request-is-too-much level of service is what earned this French institution its “Palace” rating, a prestigious label awarded by Atout France, the French government’s tourism development agency, to five-star hotels offering the highest level of service to their customers, of which there are only 31 in all of France.
The Barrière group itself is well-known in France for its luxurious hotels and casinos, perhaps most famously for the iconic Fouquet’s on the Champs-Elysees. Despite it being a French institution and its international reputation, the group is still run by its fourth-generation family members, which translates to welcoming, family spirit of Hotel Barrière Les Neiges.
Any flashiness that forms Courchevel 1850’s reputation is left at the door. Instead, we were greeted by the inside of a chalet with a roaring fireplace. The hotel manager was particularly proud to point out that guests are never asked to check in at a formal reception, but rather are whisked straight into the drawing room to check in leisurely as their bags are immediately whisked upstairs.
Indeed, the cosiness extends to their newly renovated restaurant Loulou’s which re-opened its doors on December 6 this year. The entire restaurant is blanketed in wood, like an intricate burr puzzle with stunning Alpine motifs. Offering a diverse menu of Mediterranean-French classics, my fellow travellers and I had to map out our meals just to make sure to taste all the signature dishes during our stay, from the fragrant truffle pizza to the sumptuous scallops. For those looking for an authentic après-ski experience, Loulou also offers “Le diner Savoyard” which includes traditional French raclette and fondue. Indulgent? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
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Matthieu Salvaing
However you choose to tackle the menu, be sure to leave room for the expansive dessert buffet where you’ll find everything from chocolate mousse to lemon tart to tiramisu. Good luck making that decision.
