SKI INFORMATION
LOCAL AREA: Courchevel
CONNECTED AREA: Les 3 Vallées
SEASON START & END: Early December – Late April
SKI ALTITUDE IN METRES: 2740m La Saulire – 1100m Saint-Bon / Vertical Drop 1640m
PISTES: Local Resort: 109 slopes for a total of 150 km (21 Green / 39 Blue / 38 Red / 111 Black)
Connected Area: 347 slopes for a total of 600km (53 Green / 141 Blue / 117 Red / 36 Black)
LIFTS: Total 55 with 44 open-air // 1 cable car / 9 gondolas /16 chairs / 19 drags / 8 carpets
SNOW: 900 snowmakers
LIFT TICKET PRICES: See ONLINE
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING: 80km of trails for free access ski touring
LANGUAGE: French, English, a lot of ski instructors speak many languages
AIRPORT: Courchevel Altiport 4km / Annecy 125km / Chambéry 133km / Grenoble 205km / Geneva 214km / Lyon 210km
TRAIN : Moûtiers Salins Brides-Les-Bains 20km
SKI FACTS:
- The only 3 Vallées resort with ski jumps
- Secret Valley : La vallée des Avals
- In 2012, Courchevel was the first resort to create a permanent, groomed, safe and signposted ski touring itinerary: the Millet is fast becoming legendary! Milestones every 100 m mark the route to the finish. Itinerary permitted until 7.15 pm, return to Courchevel Le Praz by gondola after the ski area closes.
- All villages are connected by the lift system. Also connected to the 3 Vallées by Col de la Loze and Saulire.
COURCHEVEL THE TOWN
In the heart of the northern French Alps, Courchevel is not just a ski resort; it is a lavish experience that combines stunning landscapes, world-class skiing and a vibrant lifestyle. With its six distinct villages: Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond at 1650m, Courchevel Village at 1550m, Courchevel Le Praz at 1300m, Courchevel La Tania 1400m and Courchevel Saint Bon 1100m the resort caters to every type of skier and traveller.
The crown jewel of this collection is undoubtedly Courchevel 1850, the first ski resort in France built from scratch using stone from the local quarry between 1650 and 1850. It has since grown into a haven for the elite, drawing an array of royals and celebrities, making it a staple on the luxury travel circuit. The town is renowned for its opulent 5-star hotels and boasts the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants of any ski resort in the world.
As you wander through the various picturesque villages, you’ll find charming chalets and hotels dotted among the trees. The approach to each village offers a visual feast, reminding visitors that Courchevel is more than just slopes and après-ski.
In Courchevel, luxury brand shops like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Chanel beckon with their high-end allure, ensuring that you have plenty of opportunities to indulge. But beyond the glamour, there lies a community deeply rooted in the love of snow sports and the alpine lifestyle.
COURCHEVEL WHERE TO STAY
For an unforgettable stay, look no further than Manali Lodge, this sumptuous residence features a collection of chalet-style apartments, each designed with comfort and elegance in mind. Our spacious apartment accommodated ten guests effortlessly, complete with a well-equipped kitchen and a hot tub that offered a perfect après-ski retreat.
The ski-in, ski-out location is ideal for those eager to hit the slopes as soon as the sun rises, and the views across Courchevel are nothing short of breathtaking. After a day on the mountain, one can retreat to the cosy ambience of Manali Lodge, with its perfect blend of luxury and rustic charm.
COURCHEVEL WHERE TO EAT
Dining in Courchevel is an experience unto itself. Begin your culinary journey at Chic Nonna in Courchevel 1850, the first restaurant from Dubai to open in this illustrious area. Specialising in Italian cuisine, the focus here is on high-quality ingredients that take centre stage. The portion sizes are delicate, encouraging diners to share and explore a variety of dishes, from exquisite tuna tartare to perfectly prepared Dover sole served tableside. Save room for dessert; the tiramisu and pastries are not to be missed.
For a more intimate setting, head to The Bistrot Manali in Courchevel 1650. This chic establishment features a cosy interior with a fireplace, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. The lobster roll is a must-try, alongside the ceviche-made scallops, which beautifully showcases the culinary expertise of the team.
If you’re looking for a truly rustic and authentic experience, La Chapelle 1550 in Courchevel 1550 is a hidden gem. Run by the charming couple Thierry and Zed, this cosy restaurant is adorned with snowsport memorabilia, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Their Alpine menu features homemade delicacies, including a must-try raclette cooked to perfection by Thierry. The authentic experience and comfort food make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
WHERE TO EAT ON THE MOUNTAIN
When it comes to dining on the mountain, Cave des Creux is a bustling hotspot that offers stunning views across Courchevel. Enjoy a delicious Lillet Spritz while savouring dishes like tuna tartare with coconut leche and beef tartare with creamy mash. The lively atmosphere, complete with a live band playing requests, makes it a delightful place to dine.
Another fantastic option is Le Portetta- Cucina Angelina at 1650, a true sun trap that serves up Italian delicacies with a nod to local Savoyard and French classics. Run by English chef Angela Hartnett, the menu boasts homely flavours with dishes like Gnocchi con Parmigiano and Diavola pizza with a proper Neapolitan crust.
COURCHEVEL, MORE THAN JUST SKIING
Courchevel, the glamorous ski resort in the French Alps, is often synonymous with luxury skiing, Michelin-starred dining, and high-end shopping. However, beyond its illustrious reputation lies a treasure trove of activities that unveil a different side of this enchanting winter wonderland. Whether you are an avid skier or seeking alternative adventures, Courchevel has something for everyone.
One of the most exhilarating ways to experience the beauty of Courchevel is through fat biking. Guided by the attentive Jean-Noel from the Ecole de Ski Français (ESF), one embarks on an adventure across groomed pistes and down scenic forest trails leading to Courchevel 1550. The thrill of cycling on snow-covered paths is invigorating. The contrast between the crisp mountain air and the tranquillity of the forest is truly magical.
For those who prefer a more serene experience, a walk to Le Lac de Rosiere from Courchevel 1650 is a must. The well-groomed path meanders through a winter wonderland, with trees draped in snow, creating a scene reminiscent of Narnia. Upon reaching the lake, you can find the charming Refuge de Lac de Rosiere, where you can indulge in delightful crepes and aromatic coffee. This rustic refuge offers a cosy atmosphere to unwind during your hike.
On days when the weather might not cooperate, Aquamotion is the perfect escape. Located between Courchevel 1650 and 1550, this sprawling aquatic centre offers a plethora of amenities. Accessible by car, bus, or the escalator from 1650, Aquamotion boasts an impressive swimming zone designed for families, complete with slides, a baby pool, an indoor and outdoor thermal pool and a lazy river.
For those seeking relaxation, the wellness zone features a salt pool ideal for floating, as well as hammams, saunas, and jet thermal pools. The treatment area and gym are quintessential spots for unwinding. Not to mention, a café on-site ensures you won’t go hungry during your visit. Aquamotion is the perfect place for families looking to entertain kids on a white-out day or for anyone seeking a leisurely afternoon.
COURCHEVEL SKIING
If one were to design the ultimate mountain for skiing, Courchevel would be a top contender. The resort features a well-distributed network of pistes suited for all levels of skiers. At the lower altitudes, you’ll find easy, wooded runs that create a perfect learning environment for beginners. As you ascend the mountain, the runs become increasingly demanding, keeping things exciting for intermediate and expert skiers alike. Many of the slopes face north, ensuring the snow remains in excellent condition throughout the season.
While Courchevel can become busy during peak times, the modern and efficiently run lift system keeps queues to a minimum. For those looking to escape the crowds, consider venturing towards Courchevel La Tania or Courchevel Moriond, a hidden gem with broad, sunny pistes perfect for carving. It boasts an array of blue and green runs, making it family-friendly and ideal for beginners.
At Courchevel 1850, the vast selection of pistes and lifts can be somewhat overwhelming. However, the stunning surroundings and the sheer variety of trails make it worthwhile.
The quieter red piste Cave des Creux and black piste Mur leading back to Moriond seem to be missed by most skiers so can be skied without crowds.
In general, Courchevel is well-designed for skiers, with plenty of options to navigate the mountain via green, red or blue pistes. Many visitors enjoy long lavish lunches so afternoons tend to be a little quieter on piste. For breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Alps and a stunning view of Mont Blanc, the summit of Saulire at 2660 metres is an absolute must.
BEGINNERS
For those just starting their skiing journey, Moriond and 1850 offer gentle, wide runs that provide ample opportunities. These areas are perfect for beginners, fostering a comfortable environment where new skiers can build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. The easy gradients of the slopes allow novices to practice their skills while enjoying the stunning alpine scenery.
INTERMEDIATE
As skiers progress in their abilities, Courchevel provides a wealth of options for intermediate enthusiasts. Higher up the mountain, the pistes transition to longer blues and reds that serve as the perfect ‘next step’ for those seeking to challenge themselves. Runs like Loze offer a fun experience, while more demanding reds such as Combe Saulire push intermediate skiers to refine their technique and explore the mountain further. Over in Moriond, the red pistes towards the east such as Chapalets and Boix-Vives are often quiet and a lot of fun.
ADVANCED
For advanced skiers, head over to the various black pistes below the Saulire mountain peak, such as Piste M, and Pylonesor Suisses. Alternatively, head towards La Tania and pit yourself against the World Ski Championship slope- L’Eclipse.
ECOLOGY & SUSTAINABILITY FACTS
- The Green Snowflake is a label guaranteeing the sustainable commitment of mountain tourism destinations. The label was developed by the Mountain Riders Association to give mountain lovers a clear vision of exemplary tourist destinations. The Green Snowflake sustainability label was created in 2011 and defines eligibility criteria for mountain tourism communities.
- The Fédération des Stations Vertes and des Villages de Neige, awarded Courchevel the “Station verte” label in 2017. This label recognises the area as a ‘nature’ destination, being authentic, respectful of the environment and participating in the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of the region as well as the well-being of its inhabitants.
- At the end of 2015, as part of a consortium with Courchevel Tourisme, the Club des Sports de Courchevel and the Syndicat Intercommunal d’Assainissement de la Vanoise renewed its energy contract with EDF, opting for a guaranteed 100% renewable energy contract.
- For every kilowatt-hour of electricity purchased by the members of the group, EDF undertakes to inject into the national grid one kilowatt-hour of electricity produced mainly from renewable energies. Through this commitment, Courchevel is contributing to the development of renewable energies nationwide.
For more information visit COURCHEVEL.
