Major Fire at Courchevel Luxury Hotels Prompts Massive Evacuations and Ongoing Firefighting Efforts

A significant fire broke out on the evening of January 27, 2026, at the five-star hotel Les Grandes Alpes in the upscale Courchevel ski resort in Savoie. Over 100 firefighters, including 60 on the ground supported by 50 vehicles and reinforcements from neighboring areas, continue to battle the blaze under difficult conditions.

The fire started in the attic and escalated rapidly due to the building’s roof structure, described as "very complicated to treat" by Prefect Vanina Nicoli. The thick smoke and fast-moving flames prompted the evacuation of nearly 300 people, including over 90 guests and staff from Les Grandes Alpes and approximately 200 people from the nearby hotel Le Lana as a precaution. These evacuees were relocated to other nearby hotels with strong community support.

Four firefighters sustained minor injuries from smoke inhalation, but fortunately, no tourists or hotel staff were harmed, as reported by both local authorities and the prefecture. Efforts to contain the fire have included removing exterior cladding and extensive thermal surveillance using drones. However, firefighting foam has contaminated some potable water supplies, with cleanup measures underway.

Despite the severity of the fire, the Courchevel resort remains open, with Mayor Jean-Yves Pachod assuring the public that the situation is under control. An investigation into the fire’s cause will begin once the blaze is extinguished.