A massive fire erupted at the renowned five-star Grandes Alpes hotel in Courchevel 1850, a luxurious ski resort in the French Alps. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening around 7 PM, forcing guests to evacuate into the snow as firefighters worked tirelessly to control the flames.
Fire Details and Evacuations
The fire started in the attic of the hotel, which charges upwards of £11,000 per night. As the situation unfolded, approximately 100 guests were evacuated from the hotel. Additionally, around 200 residents were moved from the neighboring Lana Hotel as a precaution, due to smoke and embers drifting nearby.
By Wednesday morning, over 115 firefighters continued their battle against the blaze, which had begun to spread to adjacent wooden structures. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported among the guests, though several firefighters suffered minor injuries while combating the frigid conditions.
Challenges Faced by Firefighters
Firefighters faced significant obstacles as they attempted to contain the blaze. Bruno Charlot, the sub-prefect of Albertville, stated that the flames had spread rapidly overnight. He explained that the structure’s slate and sheet metal roof made access to the fire particularly challenging. Efforts involved removing stones and cutting through sheets to reach the flames underneath.
The Grande Alpes Hotel
The Grandes Alpes hotel is a favorite among celebrities, previously frequented by high-profile individuals, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Rumors suggest that they stayed in this exclusive hotel during family vacations in the region.
This luxurious establishment offers top-tier amenities, such as a Michelin-starred restaurant, an indoor swimming pool, and personalized butler service. Its appeal lies not only in its high-end offerings but also in the utmost privacy it provides to its guests.
Context of Recent Fires
This incident follows closely on the heels of a tragic fire at a bar in the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, which resulted in the deaths of 40 individuals and injuries to over 100 others. Investigations into that disaster are ongoing, with concerns raised about possible safety violations.
As the flames continue to rage at the Grandes Alpes hotel, officials emphasize the urgency of the situation and the need for safety protocols in such high-stakes environments.
