COURCHEVEL 1850, France

COURCHEVEL 1850, France

That's 1850! Not 1650. Not 1550. Certainly not 1350. If the wearing of mink pelts wasn't  universally condemned, Courchevel would look like a trappers convention. Courchevel isn't posh in the you're-not-meant-to-be-here way that many on the list are. Mixed in with the mink (fake) is an easy mix of seasonnaires (servants), ski bums and holidaymakers. Prices are as steep as the runs but bargains can be had further down the hill at, h-hmm, 1350. William and Kate brought the kids here last year and so did Posh and Becks.

Who to see: Russians and The Ray-Ban set: Posh and Becks, William and Kate and F1 drivers and owners.

Apres-ski: Take a long luncheon at the two-Michelin-star Airelles restaurant decorated with jewel-toned silk curtains, Hermès tableware, and Saint Louis chandeliers. After your day's skiing, head to Le Piggy's - the oh-so-chic wine and piano bar - in the centre of town where a pint will set you back €14. Then it's on to the Les Caves nightclub for a Jeroboam (3ltr) of Dom Perignon or if you are really thirsty a Nebuchadnezzar (15ltr) of Moët.

Where to stay: So long as it's 1850, who cares? You'll find nine five-star hotels here. One of which is Le Kilimandjaro where individual chalets (sleeping 12) cost €11,300 p/n, but include a private butler who will warm your ski boots for you over night.