Luxury hotel in French Alps hit by fire, nearly 300 evacuated

By Ilayda Cakirtekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - A five-star hotel at the Courchevel ski resort in the French Alps was hit by a fire late Tuesday, prompting the evacuation of nearly 300 people.

The fire broke out in the attic of the Hotel des Grandes Alpes and posed a high risk of spreading but was brought under control nearly a day later on Wednesday, according to broadcaster BFM TV.

Authorities said the fire spread rapidly and was fueled by various materials, while the complexity of the roof -- intertwined with those of neighboring buildings -- made firefighting efforts more difficult.

Nearly 300 people were evacuated, and six firefighters were slightly injured.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, and an investigation has been launched.