What are people looking for in luxury tourism and could a winter ski escape be the answer?
As the weather begins to turn cooler and we look to the autumn, it begins to be the time to start exploring winter getaways. Perhaps spending the holidays in the snow is a perfect option for this Christmas?
The definition of luxury is everchanging and constantly improving. We are seeing an emergence in people looking for holidays which focus on memorable experiences as well as improved levels of service. No longer do people want substandard levels of hospitality and whether you enjoy outdoor activities or something more relaxing there are concepts constantly being developed in the industry. An example of quality experiences is the Hotel Le Coucou in Maribel, where this hotel is looking at new ways to improve customer’s stays and ensuring high levels of service.
It is often difficult to join both tradition and luxury. What is the best way to ensure people feel they are getting a hotel which is both in keeping with the culture of the area but has all of the amenities which we expect from luxury. It is evident that Hotel Le Coucou is working to create a comforting and cosy experience perfect for the festive period with special added touches sure to make you want to return following year!
Hotel Le Coucou will reopen for the winter season on December 14th 2023, with an array of enhancements that promise an exceptional Alpine experience in the heart of Méribel. From a new French-style bistro to upgraded chalet experiences, exciting collaborations and special holiday events, Le Coucou continues to be a beacon of luxury and hospitality, promising a truly unforgettable winter getaway in the heart of the French Alps.
Le Coucou is delighted to introduce a new French-style bistro, to replace Biancaneve. The menu will feature a decadent seafood bar with oysters, shellfish and clams, as well as traditional French cuisine such as cheese soufflé, boeuf bourguignon, gratin dauphinois and roasted camembert with truffle. For a festive treat over Christmas only, guests will have the chance to feast on a 4-hands menu in collaboration with Chef Adrien Brunet from Crillon le Brave, which showcases the culinary expertise of Maisons Pariente’s exceptional chefs.
Alongside the new dining experiences, Le Coucou’s Beefbarremains committed to sourcing top-quality ingredients and offering the finest cuts of Black Angus Prime, Wagyu WX, and Kobe beef, as well as fresh grilled fish, ceviche, and carpaccio. Restaurant Le Fumoir, which debuted last season, returns this year to tantalise taste buds with beloved Alpine dishes including raclette, fondues, tartiflette and smoked meat.
Celebrations throughout the season focus on food, with a guided class for children to create their own ‘cake of the king’ to mark Epiphany (January 6th), a jam masterclass on Chandeleur (Crepe Day - February 2nd) to enjoy with delicious pancakes prepared by locals in traditional Brittany dress, and a special sharing menu and unique spa offer for couples enjoying a romantic and relaxing celebration of love on Valentine’s Day (February 14th).
To elevate the already exceptional private chalet experience, Le Coucou will pamper guests with new beauty products including Tata Harper skincare, La Bonne Brosse, cashmere blankets and Dyson hair styling.
Le Coucou’s Christmas events include fun activities for kids - decorating gingerbread houses, crafting Christmas wreaths and making shortbread with the hotel’s baker - and culminate in the arrival of Santa on skis, with a personalised gift for every child, and a festive Christmas Day brunch with a cooking demonstration and live music.
A private night race will provide guests with a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of Alpine skiing under the stars. Le Coucou, in collaboration with Beefbar, will also be visible on the slopes all season through its sponsorship of ski bibs and slalom gates; a partnership that highlights the hotel’s commitment to supporting winter sports and creating memorable experiences for guests and athletes alike. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Méribel has a wide range of activities for all ages and skill levels. Le Coucou’s concierge team ensures guests enjoy an unforgettable mountain experience, from snowshoe hiking and snowmobile adventures, to dog or pony sledding, hot-air balloon rides, paragliding, and even snow yoga.
It is evident that through joining tradition, luxury and an eye for detail, hotels like Hotel Le Coucou are leading the way in creating memorable experiences and striving for customer service which is unforgettable.
Le Coucou, a ski-in-ski-out hotel, is ideally situated in Méribel, the central resort of the Three Valleys, the world’s largest ski area. The hotel has 55 rooms, including 39 suites, two private chalets, three restaurants, a bar, Spa with treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness room, sauna and two kids clubs. Nightly rates at Le Coucou start from 460 Euros on a half board basis. For reservations and information email reservations@lecoucoumeribel.com.