Where to Rent a Chalet in the Alps: Winter 2026/27
TLDR
- •Christmas/New Year 2026/27 is already 60-70% booked in Courchevel and Verbier
- •February half-term still has availability but is filling fast
- •Late season (March-April) offers the best value at 30-40% below peak rates
- •Average prices up 8-12% from last season across all three resorts
- •Book now for Christmas; you have until September for February
If you are reading this in early 2026 and thinking about a ski chalet for next winter, you are already behind the curve for the premium dates. The luxury Alps chalet market operates on lead times that would surprise anyone used to booking summer holidays a few months out.
Current Availability Snapshot
Christmas and New Year 2026/27 (20 December - 3 January) is approximately 60-70% booked across Courchevel 1850 and Verbier for premium chalets. Chamonix has more availability, running at roughly 40-50% booked for the same period. If you want a specific property, you are choosing from a diminished pool.
February half-term (UK dates: 13-21 February 2027) still has reasonable availability across all three resorts, but this window closes by autumn. Properties with ski-in/ski-out access sell first, followed by those with pools and spa facilities.
Pricing Trends
Rates are up 8-12% across the board from the 2025/26 season. The drivers are familiar: limited new supply entering the market, increased demand from Middle Eastern and US clients, and the weak pound making Swiss resorts relatively more expensive for British guests.
Verbier remains the best value in the premium bracket, with six-bedroom chalets at GBP 18,000-30,000/week. Courchevel 1850 starts at GBP 30,000/week and reaches GBP 80,000+ for the headline properties. Chamonix continues to offer genuine luxury from GBP 10,000/week.
The Late Season Opportunity
March and April skiing is underrated by the British market. Snow conditions are often excellent (the Alps receive significant snowfall through March), days are longer, and prices drop 30-40% from peak. For families with children not tied to school holidays, this is where the Alps offer the best combination of value and conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to book a ski chalet for Christmas?
January of the same year is ideal. By March, the best properties are gone. If you are flexible on resort or willing to compromise on specific features (ski-in/ski-out, pool), you can find availability through September. After October, Christmas availability in Courchevel and Verbier is essentially limited to cancellations.
What does a luxury ski chalet cost over Christmas?
Christmas/New Year commands the highest premiums of the ski season. In Courchevel 1850, expect GBP 40,000-80,000+ for a premium six-bedroom chalet for the two-week festive period. Verbier runs GBP 25,000-50,000 for a comparable period. Chamonix offers the best value at GBP 15,000-30,000. These rates typically include full staff.
Is late season skiing worth it?
Absolutely, and it is increasingly popular with those in the know. March and April offer longer days, warmer temperatures for lunch on sun terraces, and spring snow conditions that are excellent for intermediate skiers. Prices drop 30-40% from peak, and availability is rarely an issue. The only downside is that lower-altitude resorts may see patchy snow coverage below 2,000m.
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