Luxury hospitality continues to conquer the peaks. With the announcement of the opening of the future Raffles Courchevel, scheduled for winter 2028, Raffles Hotels & Resorts marks a strategic milestone in its international development.
For the first time in its history, the prestigious brand of the Accor group is entering the world of ultra-luxury Alpine hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the highly exclusive Jardin Alpin in Courchevel 1850, this future ski-in, ski-out retreat aims to combine Raffles’ timeless elegance with the understated art de vivre of the French Alps. This arrival also confirms the rise of mountain resorts as new four-season lifestyle destinations.
Courchevel 1850, the new epicentre of international luxury
For several years now, Courchevel 1850 has been about more than just skiing. The Savoyard resort has established itself as one of the most desirable destinations for European luxury, combining Michelin-starred cuisine, boutiques from leading fashion houses, ultra-premium hotels and an international social scene. Nestled within the Trois Vallées – the world’s largest interconnected ski area – Courchevel attracts a cosmopolitan clientele seeking exclusive experiences that blend sport, wellness and discretion.
It is against this backdrop that Raffles has chosen to establish its first Alpine property. This is by no means a trivial choice for a brand historically associated with major capitals and iconic destinations such as Raffles Singapore, Raffles London at The OWO, and Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris. With Courchevel, the group is continuing its strategy of expanding into the world’s most prestigious holiday destinations.
An alpine retreat designed by Humbert & Poyet
The future Raffles Courchevel will feature just 50 rooms and suites, confirming its commitment to an intimate and ultra-personalised experience. Situated within the highly sought-after Jardin Alpin, the property will enjoy panoramic views of the Tarentaise Valley and direct access to the slopes. Most rooms will feature private balconies overlooking the snow-capped peaks.
In terms of architecture and design, the project brings together two renowned names: the JMV architectural firm and the Monegasque duo Humbert & Poyet for the interiors. Their sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic is set to breathe new life into the concept of mountain luxury, moving away from overly traditional Alpine conventions.
The gastronomic experience will also take centre stage, with several dining areas, a tea lounge, a signature bar and two restaurants opening onto winter gardens and vast panoramic terraces. A spa with a swimming pool, thermal areas, a fitness centre and treatments inspired by the science of longevity will complete this vision of high-altitude well-being.
The luxury hotel industry’s push into the mountains
Raffles’ arrival in Courchevel illustrates a fundamental trend: the Alps are becoming a strategic battleground for major international hotel brands. Following the recent openings of new ultra-luxury establishments in the French and Swiss Alps, hotel groups are now targeting a wealthy clientele seeking exclusive experiences all year round.
Alpine luxury is no longer confined to the winter season. Wellness, fine dining, cultural events, premium hiking and experiential tourism now enable high-end resorts to attract an international clientele all year round. In line with this, Courchevel is continuing its transformation into a global lifestyle destination, capable of rivalling certain iconic seaside resorts.
Raffles continues its European expansion
With this opening scheduled for 2028, Raffles Hotels & Resorts will have six properties in Europe. Following London, Paris, Warsaw and Istanbul, the brand is pursuing a measured yet strategic expansion, prioritising destinations with significant heritage and emotional value. The forthcoming opening of Raffles Lake Como in 2027 will also strengthen this European presence, which is focused on experiential and cultural luxury.
For Accor, this development is also part of the accelerated growth of its Luxury & Lifestyle division, which has become one of the group’s strategic pillars in response to an international clientele that is increasingly demanding in terms of experience, personalisation and exclusivity.
Lire aussi > Raffles Hotels & Resorts sets up on the shores of Lake Como
Photo à la Une : © DR
