A Comprehensive Guide To Courchevel

Introduction to Courchevel

Nestled gracefully in the heart of the French Alps, Courchevel stands as an unrivaled gem, captivating ski enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. Renowned as part of the expansive Three Valleys, Courchevel not only boasts an extraordinary ski area but also offers a lavish retreat where every aspect is synonymous with opulence.

A Village for Every Style

Courchevel Ski Resort spans across five villages winding their way up the Saint Bon Valley. Each Courchevel village offers its own unique charm and atmosphere, so there is truly something to suit every style.

Courchevel, 1850 – The Pinnacle of Luxury

Altitude: 1850 meters

The world's most exclusive ski resort, Courchevel 1850, offers ski-in/ski-out super chalets, Michelin-starred dining and high-end shopping. A playground for the rich and famous.

Courchevel Moriond (1650) – Laidback Retreat:

Altitude: 1650 meters

A laidback retreat with lively apres-ski, Courchevel Moriond is a favorite for a relaxed ski getaway. Sun terraces, local bars and hearty cheese fondue define its alpine charm.

Courchevel Village 1550 – Luxury Hideaway:

Altitude: 1550 meters

Nestled quietly at 1550 meters, Courchevel Village offers luxury with spacious chalets and cozy apartments. Rustic alpine bars, Savoyard delights and ski essentials await.

Le Praz – Authentic Alpine Soul:

Altitude: 1300 meters

Le Praz, the rustic charm at 1300 meters, maintains its authentic alpine soul. Glorious chalets, modern eateries and an iconic Olympic ski jump backdrop define its unique appeal.

La Tania – Family-Friendly Haven

Altitude: 1400 meters

Built for the 1992 Winter Olympics, La Tania is a family-friendly, value-for-money ski resort. Ski-in/ski-out chalets nestled in a forest offer a perfect retreat for family skiing among the trees.

Perfect Pistes for Every Skill Level in Courchevel

Beginner Areas:

• Courchevel 1850: Pralong Zen Area and Golf Zen Area for beginners, featuring free lifts and green pistes.

• Courchevel Moriond 1650: Mickey Area, an exclusive beginner zone with a free drag lift.

• Courchevel Village: Roys Area, a beginner zone with a free lift and blue pistes.

• La Tania: Troïka and La Tania Ski Area, offering green and blue pistes for beginners.

• Courchevel Le Praz: Envolée Zen, a designated beginner area.

Intermediate Areas:

• Courchevel 1850: Ski between villages on mellow red runs like Creux and Jean Pachot.

• Courchevel Moriond 1650: Roc Merlet Face and Valley of Les Avals for varied terrain.

• La Tania: Dou des Lanches for intermediate challenges.

Advanced Areas:

• Courchevel 1850: Saulire Area for challenging red and black pistes, couloirs and the GoPro Couloir.

• Courchevel-Moriond 1650: Grandes Bosses and Gentiane for uncrowded, relaxing skiing.

• Courchevel Le Praz: Bouc Blanc and Jean Blanc for challenging black pistes through trees.

Alpine Delicacies: Courchevel's Culinary Gems

Nestled in the Savoie region, Courchevel extends its allure beyond pristine slopes to a culinary odyssey. Elevate your dining experience with the alpine trio of Fondue, Raclette, and Tartiflette, each a masterpiece of melted cheese, cured meats and fine wines.

Fondue: A Social Affair

In Courchevel, Fondue is more than a dish; it's a communal celebration. Savoyarde cheeses, like Beaufort, create a velvety texture, transforming shared meals into sociable events after a day on the slopes.

Raclette: A Cheese Lover's Delight

Raclette, named after its star ingredient, is a culinary marvel. Served as a half-wheel with a dedicated grill, it pairs perfectly with boiled potatoes, cured meats and fresh salad, offering a guilt-free pleasure post-skiing.

Tartiflette: The Mountain Refuel

Tartiflette, a Savoie gem, refuels with local Reblochon cheese, potatoes, lardons, and onions. Served piping hot, it's a hearty post-adventure delight, embracing you with a delightful warmth.

Courchevel Lunch Guide: Slopeside Delights

Gourmet Gems

La Cave des Creux

Former shepherd dwellings at 2100 meters have been transformed into a chalet, offering refined mountain cuisine on a sunny deck with Mont Blanc views.

Caphorn

Courchevel 1850's oldest mountain restaurant since 1954, boasting a south-facing terrace and a unique blend of marine explorers and mountain farming ambiance.

Chalet de Pierres

An institution on Courchevel slopes, Chalet de Pierre on the Verdons slopes provides a sunny south-facing deck for Tartiflette with truffle or grilled seabass.

Bagatelle

Fresh in 2020, Bagatelle focuses on French Mediterranean cuisine in a panoramic setting, transporting you to the south of France.

Courchevel Nightlife: Beyond the Slope

La Mangeoire Lounge & Nightclub

Immerse yourself in a vintage mountain setting at La Mangeoire, Courchevel's heart of nightlife. From traditional French cuisine to piano melodies and live music, it evolves into an unforgettable nightclub experience, offering the perfect blend of sophistication and soul.

Les Caves de Courchevel Nightclub

Hidden behind rustic wood doors, Les Caves de Courchevel emerges as one of the Alps' most raved-about nightclubs. Dance until the early hours, rubbing shoulders with celebrities amid flowing champagne and live DJ sets. Themed nights, from hip-hop parties to girls' nights, ensure an unforgettable experience.

La Grange Nightclub:

Step into La Grange for a modern urban club feel with an alpine flair. VIP tables, state-of-the-art sound systems, live music and legendary DJs create an opulent setting. La Grange stands as a VIP category, rivaling the multi-tiered clubs found in Saint Tropez.

Diverse Nightlife Adventures

Quiet Wine Bars

For a more relaxed evening, discover hidden wine gems in Courchevel. From P'tit Drink in 1850 to La Cabane in Moriond 1650 and Les Perles du Palais in Village 1550, each offers a cozy setting to savor French wines.

Seasonaire Hangouts:

If VIP nightclubs aren't your scene, explore seasonaire hangouts like La Luge in Courchevel 1850, Funky Fox and Schuss Cafe in Courchevel 1650, and L'Elephant in Le Praz. These energetic bars promise cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere, capturing the essence of Courchevel's diverse nightlife.

Courchevel's Apres Ski

Le Pelican - 1650

Formerly La Boulotte, Le Pelican in Courchevel 1650 is renowned for its raucous apres-ski with live music three times a week. Perfect for unwinding after sunny slopes, it offers sing-along tunes, Genepi shots and lively vibes.

Le Schuss - 1650

Classic alpine ski bar Le Schuss beckons with Vin Chaud aromas. A favorite lunch spot, it transforms into a lively hub on Tuesday afternoons with live music and full apres-ski mode.

Ski Lodge - La Tania

Ski Lodge in La Tania offers a quintessential ski bar experience. Ski right to the door, enjoy a sunny wooden deck, hearty pub grub and a lively atmosphere, making it a top pick for seasonaires and ski instructors.

La Taiga - La Tania

Located at a two-minute walk from La Tania slopes, La Taiga is a cozy bar and restaurant. The Freddy Wilkens Show on Tuesdays promises sing-alongs and laughter in this lively establishment.

Winter Activities in Courchevel

• Moriond Luge Racing: Thrilling 3km toboggan run. Start at Ariondaz gondola, including night sessions.

• Aquamotion: State-of-the-art pool, spa, and family fun area. Aquawellness spa and Aqualudic for relaxation and excitement.

• Snowshoeing: Explore mountains at a leisurely pace with snowshoes. Serene winter landscapes and wildlife tracks.

• Build Your Own Igloo: Guided adventure to construct an igloo in the French Alps. Snowshoe exploration and igloo building with a skilled guide.

• Dog Sledding: Control huskies or ride with a musher. Back-to-nature adventure through trees and valleys.

• Snowmobile: Engine-powered excitement on a caterpillar-track-equipped snowmobile. Evening adventure through trails and untouched powder.

• Lac Rosiere: Magical lake with tranquil shores and snowy trails. Hidden winter secret below Courchevel Moriond.

• Hot Air Balloon: Serene flight above Courchevel at sunrise. Witness snow-covered forests and wildlife.

• Paragliding: Ultimate freedom of flight with a parachute descent. Explore the mountains from a new perspective.

• Ice Rink: Glide on Courchevel's Olympic-sized rink. Enjoy traditional ice skating and watch ice hockey matches.

Places To Stay In Courchevel

Hôtel Le K2 Palace

A luxurious mountain retreat in Courchevel. Offers exquisite rooms, gourmet dining and a spa.

Airelles Courchevel - Les Airelles

A prestigious palace hotel in the heart of Courchevel. Known for its opulent decor, Michelin-starred dining and stunning spa.

Cheval Blanc Courchevel

Part of the prestigious LVMH Hotel Management group. Features gourmet dining, luxury boutiques and exceptional services.

Six Senses Residences & Spa Courchevel

Brings the renowned Six Senses wellness philosophy to the Alps. Emphasizes sustainability and a holistic approach to well-being.

L'Apogee Courchevel, Oetker Collection

A masterpiece of alpine beauty and luxury. Known for its Oetker Collection's commitment to luxury and service.

Embark on an unforgettable journey where luxury meets alpine adventure. Courchevel awaits, promising a winter wonderland of exquisite slopes, gourmet delights and unparalleled experiences. Whether you seek the thrill of the slopes, the indulgence of fine dining or the tranquility of spa retreats, Courchevel has it all. Plan your dream getaway today and discover the enchantment that awaits in this alpine paradise. Your extraordinary winter escape begins here

Embarking on a Courchevel adventure is an immersion into a world where luxury seamlessly intertwines with family joy and solo exploration. From the exclusive Courchevel Altiport landing to the lavish chalet accommodations, the experience exudes opulence at every turn. Families can create lasting memories with Grand Prix-style tobogganing at Moriond Luge and exploration of the Family Park's winter wonders. Meanwhile, solo travelers find tranquility drifting above the alpine landscape in a personal hot air balloon or seeking moments of solitude on the Olympic-sized ice rink and snowy trails. Courchevel beckons as a destination where luxury, family bliss and solo serenity converge for an unforgettable alpine escape.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to France. In need of further inspiration? Check out Karen Morales’s guide, Multigenerational Trip Through France.