Travel & Leisure


Le Lana: A little closer to the stars...

This hotel was naturally one of the very first French hotels to be awarder 5 stars. With more than 50 years of history in its favour, Le Lana in Courchevel has risen to the summit of the hotel industry. On the menu: top of the scale services (concierge service supported by a butler), a contemporary yet chalet-like design, an avalanche of facilities and a "cosy house" feel where life is enjoyable.

 


Rise to the top


 


The first regulars no doubt still remember that in 1958, when Courchevel was still a small resort, far from its current 62 ski lifts serving some 150 km of slopes, Jo Tournier dreamed of opening the first 4 star hotel in the region. A visionary, this inhabitant of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc set himself a considerable objective: attracting an international clientele sensible to the much sought after French "art de vivre", thus building on the reputation of the resort. Mission accomplished for this chalet that expands year after year and culminates in the art of hospitality. A destination is born. Later, the children take over, expanding on their parents' work until the complete renovation of the establishment in 2009, resulting in a fully deserved fifth star.


In the Spirit of Courchevel


 


First of all, it helps to have one of the largest skiing areas in the world! It has over 600 km of runs and slopes, combining the Trois Vallées panorama, beautiful scenery and equipment to match its popularity. Then there is the "Courchevel spirit", a reputation that is both volcanic and très chic that goes far beyond our natural borders; a token of luxury, glamour and commitment to service...It would be an understatement to say that Le Lana embodies this spirit. In view of its precedence, Le Lana is also an epitome of authenticity.
With warm shades, fluctuating between honey, sand and chocolate, its suites summoning wood, stone and fabric, its bathrooms of marble and wood...the tone is set.


Delicious with Guy Martin

 As far as the taste buds are concerned, La Table du Lana goes off-track with Roasted Scallops "a la plancha" and onion and truffle sorbet or Lobster lasagne and cinnamon flavoured pumpkin... courtesy of Guy Martin. However, the other senses are not outdone.

The Spa by Clarins, a genuine sensory experience

The Spa by Clarins
and its heated pool welcome skiers in much need of relaxation; inviting them to a genuine sensory experience while on the service side, Le Lana accumulates brownie points: a butler, concierge service, valet parking, secretariat, babysitting, computer access... Nothing is too good for its guests. Too bad, we have to go home at some point...!

Février 2010
By Katya PELLEGRINO

My opinion:
A hotel steeped in history and appreciated by the jet set. The director is courteous and well mannered.
The "à la carte" dinners courtesy of Guy Martin are promising and bring an extra "starry" touch to Le Lana.
The renovated rooms are more modern and we appreciate the high tech bathrooms with Turkish bath built in to the shower and the soothing chromatic lighting.
The prime location allows for walks in the heart of Courchevel and, possibly, dinner at Saint Roch, facing Le Lana, which also belongs to the Tournier family.
If you are looking for a cosy hotel with a private residence feel and a warm and intimate atmosphere, it's off to the Saint Joseph, another hotel belonging to the Tournier family.

Hotel Le Lana
Rue de la Croisette
73120 Saint-Bon-Tarentaise
Tel: 04 79 08 01 10
www.lelana.com