Dramatic scenes unfolded Tuesday evening at the famous ski resort of Courchevel, when a fire broke out at a luxury five-star hotel in the French Alps. The blaze triggered the immediate evacuation of hundreds of people, while local authorities confirmed there were no casualties from the incident.
Fire development at Hotel des Grandes Alpes
The fire started around 7:00 PM local time, corresponding to 8:00 PM Greek time, in the attic of Hotel des Grandes Alpes. According to the official announcement from the Savoie prefecture, firefighting forces were immediately called to the scene to tackle the incident. Initially, authorities proceeded to evacuate approximately 100 people from the building where the fire broke out. However, as flames spread to an adjacent building, the number of people requiring evacuation dramatically increased to 270 individuals, local media reported.
Safe evacuation without injuries
Hotel staff and guests staying at the accommodation were temporarily relocated to other lodgings in the broader Alps region. Local authorities emphasized that the evacuation operation was conducted in an organized and calm manner, with no incidents of panic reported. In their official statement, authorities said: “The evacuation was carried out calmly and no injuries have been reported so far.” The successful completion of the operation provides relief for local authorities and rescue workers who participated in the effort.
However, the fire continued burning at the resort through the morning.
Courchevel ski resort in the French Alps
Courchevel is one of the most popular winter destinations in the French Alps, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The hotel where the fire broke out regularly hosts tourists from around the world who choose the luxury resort for their winter holidays. Authorities continue investigating the causes that sparked the blaze, while more information is expected regarding the damage sustained by the hotel and the time needed for its restoration.