There’s something undeniably special about the Alps at the very start of the ski season. The air feels crisper, the slopes quieter, and the mountains freshly dusted with their first snow, hold a kind of serene anticipation. Early season skiing offers a different rhythm: unhurried, unspoiled, and deeply luxurious in its simplicity.
From late November onwards, resorts like Val d’Isère, Courchevel, and Méribel awaken in perfect form. The pistes are freshly groomed, the lift queues still short, and the atmosphere feels almost secretive, as though the mountains are yours alone. For many returning guests, this is the most treasured time to visit: when the beauty of the Alps feels personal.
In Consensio’s chalets, the experience feels even more magical. Return from those first runs of the season to the warmth of a crackling fire, a glass of Perrier-Jouët poured by your host, and the comforting hum of a chalet coming back to life. Private chefs in our Ultimate and Relaxed Catered Chalets craft bespoke menus – from indulgent après-ski feasts to nourishing, locally inspired dishes – designed to refuel and restore after a day on the slopes.
Beyond skiing, early season brings a quieter kind of luxury. Wander through alpine villages as they hang their first festive lights, enjoy spa treatments without the rush, or watch the snow fall from your private jacuzzi as the valley hushes into evening.
It’s the calm before the season’s crescendo, and for many, that’s what makes it truly special. Early season skiing is not just about first tracks; it’s about rediscovering the Alps at their most peaceful, and experiencing luxury in its purest form.