Discover Courchevel | A Visitor's Introduction to Courchevel

Why is Courchevel Worth a Visit?

Courchevel is worth visiting for its perfect balance of world-class skiing, luxury amenities, and alpine charm. It has pistes for all levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging off-piste terrain. The ski infrastructure is exceptional, with modern lifts, well-maintained slopes, and easy links to neighbouring Méribel and Val Thorens.

Off the slopes, Courchevel sets itself apart with its high-end services: gourmet restaurants (including several Michelin-starred), chic boutiques, luxury hotels, and wellness spas. At the same time, you’ll find traditional Savoyard chalets, cosy mountain eateries, and a rich programme of family-friendly activities.

Courchevel is also a four-season destination. In summer, the mountains transform into a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and paragliding. Whether you want adventure, relaxation, or indulgence, Courchevel delivers with style.

Courchevel Highlights: Things to See and Do in Courchevel

Les Trois Vallées Ski Area

Courchevel is part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world. With 600 km of pistes, 180 lifts, and endless off-piste opportunities, it’s a skier’s dream. You can ski from Courchevel to Méribel, Val Thorens, or Les Menuires in a single day. The slopes cater to all abilities, from wide green runs for beginners to steep black pistes and powder fields for experts.

Courchevel 1850

The highest and most famous of Courchevel’s villages, 1850 is synonymous with luxury. Here, you’ll find designer boutiques, 5-star hotels, gourmet restaurants, and chic après-ski venues. The village was purpose-built after World War II but retains a charming alpine look with its chalet-style architecture. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for a stroll through its stylish streets.

Family-Friendly Villages

Courchevel isn’t just about glitz. The resort is actually made up of several villages at different altitudes:

• Courchevel Le Praz (1300) – A traditional Savoyard village with cobbled streets, chalets, and easy lift access.

• Courchevel Village (1550) – A quieter, more affordable base ideal for families.

• Courchevel Moriond (1650) – Known for its sunshine and great intermediate slopes.
  Each offers a slightly different atmosphere, from rustic charm to buzzing nightlife.

La Saulire

Take the cable car to La Saulire (2,738 m), one of the highest points in Courchevel. The panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and surrounding peaks are breathtaking. From here, you can also tackle some of the area’s most famous ski runs, including the Combe de Saulire.

Michelin-Starred Dining

Courchevel has more Michelin-starred restaurants than almost any other ski resort. Highlights include Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc (three stars) and Le Chabichou (two stars), where you can savour refined alpine gastronomy. For a more rustic experience, traditional mountain restaurants such as Le Bouc Blanc or Les Pierres Plates serve hearty Savoyard specialities.

Aquamotion

Located between Courchevel Village and Moriond, Aquamotion is Europe’s largest mountain waterpark. With indoor and outdoor pools, slides, a surf wave, climbing walls, and a luxurious wellness area, it’s perfect for families or anyone looking for relaxation after a day on the slopes.

Summer Hiking and Mountain Biking

In summer, Courchevel transforms into a green paradise. Popular hikes include trails to Lac de la Rosière, a turquoise mountain lake surrounded by forests, and panoramic routes from La Saulire. Mountain bikers will find dedicated downhill trails and lifts adapted for bikes.

Paragliding

For an unforgettable thrill, take to the skies with a tandem paragliding flight. Launching from mountain tops like La Saulire, you’ll float over the valley with incredible views of Courchevel’s villages and pistes below.

Ice and Snow Activities

Beyond skiing, Courchevel offers snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and even ice climbing on frozen waterfalls. For families, the resort has fun zones like the Family Park with snow tunnels, jumps, and games for kids.

Courchevel Air Show

Each February, Courchevel’s unique altiport, one of the highest in Europe, hosts an impressive air show with ski-equipped planes and acrobatic displays. It’s a reminder of the resort’s adventurous spirit and international flair.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The nearest international airports are Geneva (2h30), Lyon-Saint Exupéry (2h15), and Chambéry (1h45). Transfers are available by bus, taxi, or private shuttle.

For train travel, head to Moutiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains station, about 30 minutes from Courchevel, then continue by bus or taxi.

Driving is possible, but mountain roads can be challenging in winter — snow tyres or chains are essential.

Parking

Parking is available in all Courchevel villages, with both outdoor lots and underground car parks. Spaces in Courchevel 1850 can be expensive and limited, especially during peak weeks. Staying in lower villages and using lifts or free shuttles is a good alternative.

Dining

Don’t miss classic Savoyard dishes like fondue, raclette, and tartiflette, often enjoyed in cosy mountain chalets. For fine dining, Courchevel boasts several Michelin-starred options. For casual fare, try pizza and pasta spots popular with families or enjoy après-ski snacks at bars like La Folie Douce (Méribel-Courchevel link).

Shopping

Courchevel 1850 is famous for luxury shopping, with boutiques from Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Moncler lining the streets. For more practical or affordable options, Courchevel Village and Moriond have sports shops, bakeries, and local food stores. Regional souvenirs include Beaufort cheese, Savoy wines, and Genepi liqueur.

When to Visit

• Winter (December to April) – Peak season for skiing, with the busiest weeks at Christmas, New Year, and February school holidays.

• Summer (July to early September) – Perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the lakes and meadows.

• Spring and Autumn – Quieter, with limited lift access but great for those seeking peace and lower prices.

Local Events

• International Fireworks Festival (February–March) – Spectacular pyrotechnic displays light up the valley.

• Courchevel Polo on Snow (January) – An unusual and glamorous event where teams compete on horseback on snowy fields.

• Christmas and New Year Celebrations – Torchlit descents, street parades, and festive markets create a magical alpine atmosphere.

Exploring Beyond Courchevel

Courchevel is part of the Savoie region, and there’s plenty to explore nearby:

• Méribel and Val Thorens – Easily accessible on skis within Les Trois Vallées.

• Albertville – Olympic history and the medieval village of Conflans, about 1 hour away.

• Vanoise National Park – A paradise for hiking and wildlife spotting, just beyond the ski areas.

• Annecy – The “Venice of the Alps”, with its canals and lakeside setting, is around 2 hours away by car.

Courchevel is much more than just a ski resort: it’s a destination that combines outdoor adventure with refined luxury and authentic alpine character. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the pistes, indulgence in Michelin-starred restaurants, or relaxation in stunning mountain scenery, Courchevel delivers in true style.