Annapurna

Annapurna, Courchevel: A Michelin Key One-Key Alpine Retreat with Panoramic Views

Hôtel Annapurna, a Michelin Key One-Key property in Courchevel, offers a luxurious and family-friendly experience with a prime ski-in/ski-out location and breathtaking mountain vistas. While guests consistently praise its exceptional service and facilities, some minor concerns regarding noise and value have been noted.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general sentiment for Annapurna is largely positive, with guests frequently commending its excellent service, pristine cleanliness, and unparalleled location. The Michelin Guide itself designates it as "One MICHELIN Key · A very special stay". Review platforms like Expedia and Hotels.com reflect this, with recent guests rating it as "10/10 Excellent" and "9.0 Wonderful" respectively. However, some recurring criticisms mention noise levels, uncomfortable beds, and the overall value for money.

2. Key Highlights

The most celebrated aspects of Annapurna revolve around its exceptional amenities and services:

• Ski-in/Ski-out Access: The hotel boasts direct access to the slopes from the Pralong piste, providing seamless entry to the vast Trois Vallées ski area.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Annapurna is highly regarded for its commitment to families, offering an extensive kids' program and a "Teens Universe" complete with a game room and movie theater.
• Luxurious Wellness Facilities: Guests can unwind in the Codage spa, which includes a sunny indoor pool, two saunas, two Turkish baths, a jacuzzi, and a fitness room. Massages, facials, and other beauty treatments are also available.
• Stunning Views: As the highest hotel in Courchevel 1850, many rooms and public areas offer magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Attentive Service: The concierge and valet services are frequently highlighted by guests as being "top" and the staff as exceptionally friendly.
• Convenient Shuttle Service: A complimentary 24-hour shuttle service is provided for easy access to the village center.

3. Room Quality

The 67 rooms and suites at Annapurna are described as fairly modern with smart, modest furnishings. Accommodation options range from standard double rooms to expansive luxury suites, with some featuring private saunas, sitting rooms with fireplaces, and dining areas. Most rooms are south-facing and benefit from large panoramic windows, maximizing natural light and offering magnificent views. Standard in-room amenities include satellite TV, a DVD player, free WiFi, a direct dial telephone, and a mini-bar. Despite the overall positive impression, some guests have reported issues with uncomfortable beds.

4. Dining Experience

Annapurna offers a diverse culinary experience across its three restaurants.

• La Table de l'Annapurna: This restaurant is the heart of the hotel's dining, serving generous French cuisine crafted with local, seasonal ingredients and a creative touch by Chef Jean-Rémi Caillon. The atmosphere is colorful and inviting, with live music and artistic performances enhancing the dinner experience.
  • Breakfast: A lavish buffet and à la carte service are available from 7:30 AM, featuring organic eggs prepared to order, homemade pancakes and crepes, porridge, energy bowls, and a selection of savory and sweet options.
• Alpage: The hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, Alpage, offers a fine dining experience focused on elegant cuisine and mountain produce, revealed after nightfall in a serene setting.
• La Fèrma: This restaurant specializes in Savoyard specialties.
• Room Service: In-room dining is also available from breakfast to dinner, offering a carefully curated selection of dishes and drinks.

While the food is generally well-received, some guests have noted occasional issues with restaurant service, menu variety, and dishes being unavailable.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Annapurna consistently receives high praise. Guests frequently highlight the exceptional friendliness and professionalism of the staff, particularly the concierges and valet service. The hotel is family-run, and this ethos of kindness, excellence, and passion for hospitality is deeply embedded in its staff and operations.

6. Location & Accessibility

Hôtel Annapurna is strategically located at 734 Route de l'Altiport in Courchevel 1850. Its position as the highest hotel in the resort offers magnificent views. The hotel provides direct ski-in/ski-out access from the Pralong piste, making it incredibly convenient for skiers. For those wishing to explore Courchevel village, a complimentary 24-hour shuttle service is readily available.

7. Value & Pricing

Annapurna is a luxury property in a highly sought-after location, and its pricing reflects this. A one-night stay for two adults can start from approximately $602.12. Additional costs include valet parking at EUR 50 per night and a fee of EUR 40 per pet, per night if traveling with animals. Extra beds for children aged 3-12 are €150 per night, and for guests 13 and over, €250 per night. While many guests appreciate the luxurious experience, some have expressed concerns about the perceived lack of value for the high price point.

8. Common Complaints

Despite its many strengths, a few recurring issues have been mentioned by guests:

• Noise Levels: Some guests have reported problems with noise during their stay.
• Uncomfortable Beds: A number of reviews mention uncomfortable beds.
• Value for Money: Given the high price, some guests feel that the overall value provided does not always meet expectations.
• Restaurant Service/Availability: Isolated comments indicate occasional issues with restaurant service, limited menu variety, or specific dishes being unavailable.

Sources

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