Alps Ski Chalets: Verbier vs Courchevel vs Chamonix
TLDR
- •Courchevel 1850 is the most expensive, averaging GBP 25,000-50,000/week for premium chalets
- •Verbier offers the best value in the ultra-luxury bracket at GBP 15,000-35,000/week
- •Chamonix is the most accessible and affordable, starting at GBP 8,000/week for genuine luxury
- •All three include full staff (chef, host, driver) at the top tier
- •Book Christmas/New Year 12 months ahead; February half-term 6-9 months
The Alps luxury chalet market operates on different economics to summer villa rentals. Seasons are shorter (December-April), demand is concentrated around specific weeks (Christmas, New Year, February half-term), and the product is fundamentally different - full staff, daily housekeeping, and a private chef are standard at the top end.
Courchevel 1850: The Price Leader
Courchevel 1850 is the most expensive ski resort in the world for chalet rentals, and it is not particularly close. A six-bedroom chalet with pool, spa, and full staff starts at GBP 25,000/week and reaches GBP 80,000+/week over Christmas. The resort attracts a Russian and Middle Eastern clientele alongside British families, which drives prices that would be eye-watering in any other context.
What you get for the premium: ski-in/ski-out access to the largest linked ski area in the world (Les Trois Vallees), a restaurant scene that includes multiple Michelin stars, and a level of service infrastructure that no other resort matches.
Verbier: The Sweet Spot
Verbier offers comparable skiing to Courchevel (the 4 Vallees is world-class, if slightly smaller) at 30-40% lower chalet prices. A premium six-bedroom chalet runs GBP 15,000-35,000/week. The town has a more relaxed atmosphere - less fur coats, more technical outerwear - and the off-piste terrain is considered the best in the Alps by serious skiers.
The trade-off: Verbier is harder to reach (transfer from Geneva is 2.5-3 hours vs 2 hours for Courchevel from Chambery), and the town infrastructure is less polished.
Chamonix: The Accessible Option
Chamonix occupies a unique position. It is a real town (not a purpose-built resort), located just one hour from Geneva airport, with luxury chalets starting at GBP 8,000/week. The skiing includes the legendary Vallee Blanche, but the resort's lift infrastructure is older and the terrain favours advanced skiers.
For families or mixed-ability groups who want luxury accommodation with varied activities beyond skiing (hiking, ice climbing, Michelin-starred dining), Chamonix delivers exceptional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a Christmas ski chalet?
The best chalets in Courchevel and Verbier for Christmas and New Year sell out 12-18 months ahead. If you want a specific property, book in January for the following December. February half-term requires 6-9 months notice. Late season (March-April) is more flexible with 2-3 months lead time.
Do luxury ski chalets include staff?
At the premium end (GBP 15,000+/week), yes. Most include a chef (breakfast, afternoon tea, dinner), a chalet host, daily housekeeping, and often a dedicated driver for resort transfers. Some ultra-premium chalets include a butler and in-house spa therapist. Budget chalets (GBP 8,000-12,000/week) typically include a host and housekeeping but not a chef.
Is Courchevel worth the premium over Verbier?
For skiing alone, arguably not - Verbier's terrain is as good or better for advanced skiers. Courchevel justifies its premium through ski-in/ski-out convenience, superior resort infrastructure, and an unmatched dining and shopping scene. If nightlife, Michelin stars, and easy access matter, Courchevel delivers. If you prioritise serious skiing and a more authentic mountain atmosphere, Verbier is the better investment.
Ready to browse?
Explore our curated selection of luxury villas across verbier and courchevel and chamonix.