More destination launches and new hotel openings

As we say goodbye to summer and look towards the cooler months, now is the time for travellers to start planning a snowy winter escape.

Highlights include:

• NEW OPENING: Maisons Pariente will open Saint Roch in Courchevel 1850 this December, the collection's fifth hotel and second alpine destination

• DESTINATION LAUNCH: Pierre & Vacances launches in Switzerland with four premium residences in Zinal, Thyon, Meiringen and Vercorin, offering an affordable alternative for a Swiss ski holiday

• REFURBISHMENT: Pierre & Vacances has unveiled Residence Capella in Avoriaz following a fresh renovation. Avoriaz also celebrates its 60th anniversary this season, a milestone is shared by Pierre & Vacances which was founded in Avoriaz in 1967

• FAMILY SKIING: For the ultimate family ski getaway this season, Le Coucou in Meribel and Moar Gut Family Nature Resort in Austria's Grossarl Valley both offer luxury escapes for guests of all ages

NEW OPENING: Maisons Pariente to Open Saint Roch in Courchevel 1850

On 18 December 2026, French family-owned hotel collection Maisons Pariente unveils Saint Roch, its fifth French address and second Alpine property, in the heart of Courchevel 1850. Just 30 metres from the Bellecôte slope and moments from the village, the 37-room retreat reimagines a long-standing resort landmark as an intimate mountain home inspired by Slavic dachas, Mongolian landscapes and ancient Persia. Designed by Friedmann & Versace, the interiors combine richly textured wood, stone, velvet, agate, marquetry and bronze with an eclectic art collection, creating the feel of a collector’s home rather than a traditional ski hotel. Highlights include the top-floor Penthouse, a living room centred around deep sofas and a fire, a restaurant and bar, a dedicated Kids Club, and a spa with an indoor pool, hammam-inspired interiors and Tata Harper treatments. With exceptionally easy access to the 3 Vallées ski area and a concierge arranging experiences from dogsledding and snowmobiling to mountain dining and helicopter flights, Saint Roch brings a warm, characterful take on French Alpine hospitality, combining mountain living with the influences of the sisters’ travels and childhood memories.

Nightly rates from €1,300 on a B&B basis

DESTINATION LAUNCH: Pierre & Vacances Expands into Switzerland with Four Premium Ski Residences

Pierre & Vacances is expanding its mountain portfolio with four premium residences in Switzerland under the SWISSPEAK Resorts by Pierre & Vacances brand. Located in Thyon, Zinal, Vercorin and Meiringen, the residences provide access to a range of Swiss ski destinations, from the extensive terrain of the 4 Vallées to traditional Valais villages and family-focused resorts. The new collection is led by Thyon and Zinal, two resorts that combine substantial ski domains with distinctive local character. Together they showcase an alternative side of Swiss skiing, away from the country's best-known international names, while still delivering access to some of the Alps' most rewarding terrain.

Weekly rates for four people start from €869 at Thyon and Zinal, €849 at Vercorin and €1,363 and Meiringen

REFURBISHMENT: Pierre & Vacances Reveals Refurbished Residence Capella in Avoriaz

Capella Avoriaz is Pierre & Vacances’ newly renovated four-star residence, offering a fresh, contemporary take on staying in the heart of Avoriaz. The residence features brand-new apartments, modern interiors, balconies overlooking the Dents Blanches or village, and direct ski-in/ski-out access. Completely renovated and better insulated, Capella also offers an indoor pool (due to complete December 2026) and heated ski lockers. The panoramic mountain views and pedestrianised location make it the perfect choice for couples, families or groups looking for a modern and accessible mountain stay.

Weekly rates start from €1,400 for four people

FAMILY SKIING: Le Coucou, Meribel

Hotel Le Coucou, will reopen its doors on 11th December, welcoming guests back for the winter season. Ideally located at the foot of the Rond-Point, des Pistes, the hotel offers exceptional ski-in/ski-out access. Designed to offer an unforgettable experience for families, this five-star establishment stands out for its warm atmosphere and refined décor by designer Pierre Yovanovitch, combining alpine tradition with modern comfort. With 55 rooms, including 39 family suites and 2 private chalets, Le Coucou is the ideal place to create memorable family moments.

Nightly rates at Le Coucou start from €780 on a half board basis.

FAMILY SKIING: Moar Gut Family Nature Resort, Austria

This winter, Moar Gut, Austria’s renowned five-star family nature resort, invites guests to embrace the magic of the snowy season with an extensive offering of ski adventures, alpine activities, and restorative wellness experiences for all ages. Nestled in the idyllic Grossarltal–Dorfgastein ski region, part of Austria’s Ski amadé network, Moar Gut provides seamless access to 80 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes suited to both beginners and advanced skiers. Families with little ones benefit from the hotel’s exclusive beginners’ slope, complete with rope lift, magic carpet, and ski carousel, designed to help children learn in a fun, safe environment just steps from the hotel. Parents looking to enjoy some skiing on their own can take advantage of Moar Gut’s daily childcare for infants from 30 days old. For guests who prefer to experience winter beyond skiing, Moar Gut curates a rich variety of activities: horse-drawn sleigh rides through snowy landscapes, cross-country skiing trails directly beside the resort, and tobogganing for family fun.

Rates start from €600 for a double room and up to €1,450 for a luxury suite, including gourmet full board and professional childcare