Airelles Val d’Isère: Redefining alpine elegance in the French Alps

At Airelles Val d’Isère, the essence of alpine luxury has been meticulously reimagined. Set against the storied slopes of Val d’Isère, the resort draws deeply from the region’s architectural heritage while incorporating modern touches that elevate it beyond the ordinary. Its design speaks of balance, where natural stone and wood sourced from local craftsmen create a sense of place, and vaulted windows allow the high-altitude light to flood the interiors. The effect is one of understated grandeur, a retreat that invites rather than overwhelms.

The resort sits at an altitude of 1,850 meters, offering guests unrivalled access to the Espace Killy ski area, which spans over 300 kilometres of pistes and boasts a peak altitude of 3,456 meters. The resort’s location allows ski-in, and ski-out access to some of the most famous runs in Europe, making it a prime destination for both beginners and seasoned skiers. The hotel’s Bernard Orcel ski room goes beyond equipment rental, offering bespoke fittings and high-end gear from brands like Fendi, Toni Sailer, and Aztech Mountain.

The 41 rooms and suites offer a tailored experience, each space designed to blend the elegance of French craftsmanship with the warmth of mountain living. The décor avoids ostentation, instead favouring clean lines and thoughtful details that make each room feel personal. Beyond the standard accommodations, five private apartments offer an even more intimate escape. The penthouse, Montmayeur, spans 200 square meters and includes a dining room, private kitchen, and a living area centred around a double-sided fireplace, where the line between luxury and home seems to dissolve.

Of course, the true heart of Airelles Val d’Isère lies beyond its walls, on the slopes of one of Europe’s most renowned ski resorts. With direct access to the pistes, guests move seamlessly from the comforts of the hotel to the challenges of the mountain. The Bernard Orcel ski room functions as a kind of high-altitude atelier, where expert staff provide personalised fittings for top-tier equipment, ensuring guests are as prepared for the snow as they are pampered within the resort. Lessons from the Ecole de Ski Français are available for all levels, adding a layer of expertise that enhances the experience, whether one is a first-timer or a seasoned skier.

Airelles Val d’Isère’s culinary offerings provide a lens through which to experience the region’s rich gastronomic traditions. LOULOU, a beloved name in luxury dining, returns to the resort with a menu that subtly marries Italian flavours with Alpine classics. A truffle pizza may share the menu with more traditional fare, but everything here speaks to a thoughtful approach, one where ingredients and technique are paramount. The terrace, expansive and inviting, is as much a part of the dining experience as the food, offering views as absorbing as the menu.

Matsuhisa Val d’Isère, the resort’s nod to international cuisine, brings the creative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours into the alpine context. Chef Nobu’s dishes, such as Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño or the rich Black Cod Miso, find a natural home here, balancing the delicate with the bold. Le Piaf, with its velvet booths and candlelit tables, provides a contrast—a place where French cuisine is given centre stage, and evenings extend well into the night with the lively energy of a private club.

Beyond dining, the resort extends its luxuries to well-being and relaxation. The 1,300-square-meter Guerlain Spa is vaulted in stone arches that lend a sense of serenity, while the long, heated pool offers an ideal spot to unwind after a day on the slopes. Treatments are carefully crafted, with options like the “Kingdom of Snow” massage combining bodywork with deep skin hydration. There is also attention to the resort’s younger guests, with a dedicated children’s area that incorporates playful elements like a Lascaux-inspired pool.

Furthermore, Airelles Val d’Isère offers a range of curated experiences designed to highlight the best of the region. Guests can engage in dog sledging, snowmobiling, or even take part in ice diving in the nearby frozen lakes. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, there are guided snowshoe hikes through pristine forests, offering a quieter way to explore the mountain’s beauty. For families, the resort offers an exclusive children’s program through its Airelles Winter Camp, where younger guests can participate in activities ranging from cooking classes to toboggan races, all while under the supervision of expert guides. The resort even provides personalised ski lessons for children through its dedicated ski club, ensuring that the entire family can enjoy the mountains at their own pace.

For further information, visit airelles.com