extravaganski

Though skiing is what draws most of the thrill-seekers, speed freaks and, as I often like to call myself, ‘atmosphere absorbers’ to the breath-taking valley of Courchevel at this time of year, it is not the be all and end all of the wintersports season. In fact, there is no real need to ski at all.

Though snowboarding long ago began to debunk the ‘ski’ holiday myth, I hope to shed some light on the other exciting alternatives to skiing that I have discovered this season. From exhilarating heli-skiing and hot air ballooning over the mountains, to fresh air of mountain hikes, there is far more to Courchevel than often meets the eye.

Fitting for the splendor of a stay at Chalet Pearl and it’s surroundings, helicopter rides are a stylish alternative to the snow shod mountain walk. Or, one step more sumptuous for those who are harder to please, fly your own plane around the playground of the Alps. Flying lessons are available in Courchevel and lessons can be designed around your every whim.

Don’t be put off a hike, through the settings that inspired the imaginations of some of the greatest Romantic poets however; beautiful secluded hamlets abound Courchevel, very handy if you have a whisky St.Bernard and a raffish mountain guide with you.

If none of the above has taken your fancy, why not try out Courchevel’s luge, unique in France and at 2km and floodlit, you can toboggan at night straight from Courchevel 1850, Chalet Pearl’s garden. Or take a snowmobile across the mountains and then a husky sleigh ride back for a truly majestic Snow Queen moment.

And if still none of that has tickled you, check out the twinkling International Festival of Pyrotechnic Art from the 12^th of February until the 12^th of March, where fire-starters from across the land come to compete in the firework shows. 

Failing that, just stay in, under the spell of Chalet Pearl’s lavish wine lists, and, in keeping with the philosophy of our ski holidays, bar tender on hand to mix you whatever you want, whenever you want.