In the heart of Courchevel Moriond, you will find the sublime Manali Lodge, one of those rare gems that effortlessly fuses Alpine charm with understated luxury. The moment we arrived, there was a distinct sense of calm and indulgence in the air, a feeling that this was not merely a hotel but a haven. This is the kind of place that makes you exhale and truly relax the moment you walk through its doors.
The welcome set the tone for the entire stay. At reception, we were greeted by the lovely Maelle, originally from La Rochelle, whose warm professionalism and friendly demeanour instantly made us feel at home. Check-in was seamless, and we were quickly shown to the Yangra Suite, our home for the duration of our winter escape.
The Yangra Suite: A Private Alpine Retreat
The Yangra Suite at Manali Lodge is, quite simply, exceptional. Stepping inside felt like entering a beautifully designed private chalet rather than a hotel suite. Every element has been carefully curated, from the soft lighting and natural materials to the exquisite mountain-inspired décor. The suite was expansive, yet it retained a cocooning warmth that is often hard to achieve in such spacious settings.
We each had our own bedroom and bathroom, an indulgent touch that allowed for privacy and comfort. The bathrooms were a spa-like sanctuary in themselves, complete with rain showers and luxurious toiletries that made every morning feel like a pampering ritual. The kitchen and lounge area were perfectly appointed, ideal for a relaxed evening glass of wine or a slow breakfast before hitting the slopes.
However, the pièce de résistance was, without question, the private hot tub on the balcony. Overlooking the snow-covered peaks, it was the ultimate spot to unwind after a day of skiing. There are few things more blissful than sinking into warm, bubbling water while snowflakes drift down around you, glass of champagne in hand, gazing out at the Alpine scenery. I genuinely could have moved in permanently.
Skiing with Style: The Manali Experience
Manali Lodge has an excellent ski-in, ski-out location, making it ideal for anyone who wants maximum time on the slopes with minimal fuss. The in-house ski shop, run by the charming Sebastian and Silvan, was a revelation. Both were super friendly, knowledgeable and clearly passionate about their craft. They helped us choose some top-of-the-range Clement Noel Salomon skis, which turned out to be nothing short of exhilarating to use. Courchevel’s perfectly groomed pistes became our playground, and every run felt like a joy thanks to their expertise and attention to detail.
Their approach was refreshingly unpretentious, focusing on ensuring we had the right equipment for our skill level and the conditions of the day. Their insider tips on where to ski and when were spot-on, elevating our experience beyond the usual resort advice. It is this personal touch that truly makes Manali Lodge stand out from the crowd.
Dining in Style: The Bistrot Manali
No stay at Manali Lodge would be complete without experiencing its elegant in-house restaurant, the Bistrot Manali. It strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and warmth, a place where fine dining feels relaxed rather than formal. The ambience was intimate and stylish, with soft lighting, contemporary art, and a subtle Alpine influence that never felt heavy-handed.
Annalise, who looked after us throughout dinner, was utterly delightful, gracious, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the menu. We began, as any good evening should, with a glass of champagne, the bubbles setting the mood for what was to follow.
For starters, I chose the Ceviche de Saint-Jacques with Leche del Tigre, avocado, and sweet potatoes. It was exquisite, fresh and vibrant, the flavours perfectly balanced, and the portion just right. It was light yet satisfying, the kind of dish that leaves you feeling refreshed rather than weighed down. Adam opted for the lobster roll, a decadent combination of lobster and shrimp served with French fries. It was generous, meaty, and the sauce was simply divine. There was something wonderfully playful about the dish, a touch of indulgent comfort amidst the mountain chic.
For the main course, I went with the salmon fillet served with caramelised miso sautéed rice and seasonal vegetables. It was beautifully presented and cooked to perfection, the miso adding a subtle depth that complemented the natural sweetness of the fish. Once again, it was a meal that managed to feel wholesome and healthy without compromising on flavour or finesse.
Dessert was a shared indulgence, a perfect sweet note to end the evening. Dining at the Bistrot Manali is an experience in itself, not merely a meal but a reflection of the lodge’s overall ethos, refined, elegant, yet deeply comforting.
The Manali Magic
What makes Manali Lodge so special is its ability to combine the best aspects of a luxury hotel with the intimacy of a private residence. The attention to detail is impeccable, but it never feels forced or overly formal. Every member of staff we encountered was friendly, efficient, and genuinely invested in making our stay memorable. Whether it was a small gesture like remembering how we took our morning coffee or offering local insights about Courchevel’s best-kept secrets, the service always felt personal.
The lodge’s design also deserves mention. It perfectly balances contemporary elegance with Alpine authenticity, using natural materials like wood and stone to create an environment that feels both sophisticated and rooted in place. The warm tones and soft textures invite you to linger, to slow down and truly savour the moment.
The location in Courchevel Moriond is ideal, offering easy access to the slopes while maintaining a sense of calm away from the bustle of the main Courchevel 1850 area. You are close enough to enjoy all the glamour and excitement of Courchevel, yet just far enough removed to experience a more tranquil, authentic side of the resort.
A Place to Return To
Our stay at the Manali Lodge was one of those rare experiences that lingers in the memory long after you have left. From the luxurious comfort of the Yangra Suite to the laughter-filled dinners at Bistrot Manali, every moment was infused with warmth, style, and a sense of effortless sophistication.
Courchevel has long been synonymous with glamour, but the Manali Lodge offers something deeper, a feeling of belonging, of being both pampered and at peace. It is a place that invites you to unwind, reconnect, and indulge in life’s finer pleasures.
As I reluctantly packed my bags on our final morning, I found myself glancing once more at the view from our balcony, the snow glistening under the soft winter sun. I realised that Manali Lodge is not just somewhere to stay; it is somewhere to live, even if only for a few blissful days. And as I stepped out into the crisp Alpine air, I knew one thing for certain—I would be back.
Manali Lodge
234 Rue de la Rosière
73120 Courchevel Moriond
France
