MAGNIFICENT MERIBEL

MERIBEL is in Les Trois Vallees – Europe’s largest connected ski area with 380 miles of runs. For years its slopes, left, have been associated with British skiers and visitors have traditionally stayed in simple chalets. But lately more nationalities have been coming and there’s been a five-star spillover from glitzy neighbouring Courchevel 1850. The result is first-class accommodation to match anywhere in the Alps.

Antares is a case in point. A luxurious new apartment-hotel with 64 sumptuous rooms, a first-rate clinic/spa and ski-in, ski-out access, plus its own boot room. There are two sleek little bars, but no restaurant. Instead, guests order from a restaurant-style room service menu to have delicious food whisked up to their apartment. It’s a far cry from ski accommodations of old.

Antares is next door to Hotel Le Coucou, a stylish enclave opened in 2019 and created by the renowned French designer Pierre Yovanovitch. Rooms are not as lavish as at Antares and are designed to be extra comfy and cosy.

Details: Seven nights at Antares, with flights, from £3,134pp in an apartment sleeping eight (oxfordski.com). Information at antaresmeribel.com and meribel.net.