Nestled in the French Alps, Courchevel is a top spot for mountain enthusiasts. If you're wondering "What to do in Courchevel?", you've come to the right place. This guide will help you dive into Courchevel's best offerings, making sure you experience it like a true local.
In this article, we'll delve deep into the heart of Courchevel, answering traveller's most asked questions. We'll discuss:
Winter in Courchevel
Because the resort of Courchevel is the ideal destination for holidays with friends or family in the Savoie department of France! It will be the occasion for you to discover several exceptional slopes if you are fond of winter sports and skiing.
The young ones will be delighted to discover the low-altitude sledging slopes or the ice rink. While the “grown-ups” will enjoy a skiable domain going up to 3,051 meters of altitude (Aiguille du Fruit). And everyone will be stunned by the wonderful mountain view. But this resort in the Trois Vallees is not solely a winter destination. It is steeped in rich cultural heritage, encompassing historical sites and traditional French villages.
The gastronomic experiences are second to none, with an array of Michelin-starred restaurants serving delectable French cuisine. Furthermore, its strategic location near major European cities makes Courchevel a convenient holiday destination.
Chalet Chu Lo Dou in Courchevel | Emerald Stay
When is the best time to visit Courchevel?
Courchevel is a dynamic destination with activities for every season. In winter, it's a skiing paradise with diverse slopes catering to all skill levels, accompanied by top-class snowboarding and snowshoeing facilities. As winter fades, the region transforms, offering vibrant landscapes perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding, all while hosting various cultural and sporting events throughout the year.
What to do in Courchevel during winter?
Winter in Courchevel is the perfect opportunity to try a winter sport!
Downhill skiing in the Courchevel 1650 ski area, cross-country skiing in the Trois Vallees ski area (at an altitude of more than 1,850 meters);
Snowboarding in the Courchevel 1550 ski area;
Sledging along the slope located between Courchevel and Courchevel Village;
Paragliding over the Alps;
Ice climbing at the Altiport of Courchevel (16 meters) or at the Ice Tower of Champagny (22 meters)
Snowshoeing and walking through the Northern Alps… you have plenty of choices!
For those seeking a more leisurely pace, the resort offers picturesque winter walking trails, ice skating, and snowshoeing.
After a day on the slopes, visitors can indulge in one of Courchevel's many luxury spa resorts;
Or savour a gourmet meal in one of its Michelin-starred restaurants, or relax at their luxury rental accommodation.
The mountains of Courchevel
What to do in Courchevel during summer?
Although Courchevel is a favourite destination for winter holidays, you can also enjoy several outdoor activities in summer.
For example, a pleasant hike will take you to the summit of the Petite Saulire (2,706 meters above sea level) for a perfect break between forest and mountain pastures.
In the heart of this mountain range, the Lac de La Rosiere remains a very popular place, in particular thanks to its unique setting, which is ideal for lazing around.
In the summer, you can organize a picnic with friends or family during your holiday in Courchevel.
In addition, Courchevel has several mountain bike trails that will allow you to discover the ski resort area between Meribel and Courchevel.
The Vallee des Avals-Courchevel is also an ideal route for an unforgettable exploration of the Savoie and the Northern Alps in general. During your bike rides, discover in particular the downhill mountain bike trails which offer a maximum of sensation.
Moreover, the ski lifts are free so you can reach any altitude without any trouble.
For lovers of climbing, Courchevel also offers the opportunity to do so in an exceptional location. The best spots in the resort include the Grande Casse (the highest peak in the Vanoise Massif) and the Dent du Villard (at 2,285 meters). A panoramic view awaits you.
How is the ski in Courchevel?
As a premier mountain resort in the French Alps, Courchevel is globally renowned for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort, part of the Three Valleys, offers an unparalleled skiing experience, with over 600 kilometres of pistes catering to all abilities. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs, Courchevel provides a diverse range of skiing and snowboarding options.
Where to ski in Courchevel?
Finding a great place to ski in Courchevel is not difficult. In fact, there are many slopes to choose from in this resort, which is the largest ski area in the world. Around 85% of the resort is located at an altitude of over 1,800 meters. This allows you to benefit from the best snow conditions in any season.
Courchevel Valley
In the heart of the Tarentaise Valley, Courchevel has no less than 52 ski lifts that offer you the possibility of reaching an altitude of 2,738 meters for about 150 km of slopes. Facing north, the Courchevel Valley will also wow you with its panoramic view on the way down.
And there are several options available to you depending on your level of experience. For example, beginners might prefer the gentle slope of the seven Easy Rider areas in Courchevel. The green and blue slopes of the resort, on the other hand, are perfect for you if you want to enjoy a quiet skiing experience.
Courchevel Village, Courchevel 1805, Courchevel Moriond & La Praz
You can also experience freeride skiing in the Courchevel Village area or in the Meribel ski resort. Le Praz is known for its 50 km of cross-country ski trails.
The best trails are spread out over Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond 1650, Le Praz and La Tania.
Other resorts in the Trois Vallees domain
Once you've explored the resort of Courchevel, you can extend your stay by exploring the Trois Vallees of the Northern Alps. Eight resorts are waiting for you: La Tania, Meribel, Brides-les-Bains, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, Orelle and Saint-Martin-de-Belleville. At your disposal are 319 slopes with a total length of 600 km and 200 ski lifts. This will ensure you a unique and complete stay in Savoie.
Snowboarding in Courchevel
What to do in Courchevel if we don't ski?
Courchevel is known as the ski capital of the world. However, there are a lot of other activities to do if skiing is not for you for one reason or another. In addition, the diversity of attractions means that there is something for everyone - young and old. For example, there are many hiking trails that go through the valley, whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, there is something for everyone. One of the most popular choices in this regard is the Lac de La Rosiere. The trail starts at the Belvedere chalet which is accessible by foot or bus from downtown Courchevel Moriond.
For a unique experience in the Alps, you can also book a dog sledging experience that will make your Savoie vacation unforgettable. This activity is accessible from Meribel, Champagny, Courchevel or La Tania.
Dog sledging in Courchevel
Moreover, it is also possible to fly over the Alps (literally!) through various activities. We note in particular the tandem paragliding adventure that will delight adrenaline lovers. Extraordinary landscapes, between mountains and snow, will certainly amaze you. You can also take advantage of the breathtaking view by booking a helicopter ride. If you are looking for originality, you can opt for a hot air balloon flight. You will then have the opportunity to fly over the Alps in complete serenity while ensuring a unique experience.
When you want to keep your feet on the ground, Nordic walking is a very popular activity in the region. Once again, there are many routes available. With snowshoes on your feet, you can enjoy the ultimate outdoor experience while exploring the Courchevel resort in a fun way.
In addition, if you haven't visited it yet, the Aquamotion water sports and mountain entertainment centre opens its doors to you. They offer pool day (indoor or outdoor), indoor surfing, bodyboarding, cryotherapy, spa & balneo activities, climbing and much more. This exceptional place welcomes you 7 days a week.
Where to stay in Courchevel?
If you are booking holidays in Courchevel, check out all that Emerald Stay has to offer in terms of exceptional rental accommodations in Courchevel. We can help you choose the perfect luxury chalet, apartment or holiday residence for your stay in the Northern Alps. Courchevel is a popular ski destination with a wide range of properties with unique features at a different range of price.
Courchevel 1850
This location is ideal if you are looking for a "ski-in-ski-out" accommodation because this area is close to the best slopes in the Tarentaise valley and has direct access to the summit of the Saulire (at 2,738 meters) and its wonderful views.
Courchevel Moriond
Courchevel Moriond, on the other hand, is an excellent option if you want to be close to the cross-country slopes. Oh and its city centre it is lively for the days in which you don't feel like skiing!
Courchevel Village 1550
A little lower in altitude, Courchevel Village 1550 is the best option for when you want to be far from the city centre and the crowds!
Le Praz 1300
Of course, we can't forget Courchevel Le Praz 1300 which represents very well the Northern Alps with its small lake and its undeniable charm.
How to get to Courchevel?
The ski resort of Courchevel has also the advantage of being easy to access from France and from other countries. You can get there by:
Car (via the freeway from Geneva, Switzerland, to Annecy, France);
Bus or shuttle (Moûtiers-Courchevel, Geneva-Courchevel and Lyon-Courchevel);
Train (the station is located 20 km from the Moûtiers train station) ;
Plane (Courchevel is located 120 km from the airport of Lyon, France, and 180 km from the airport of Geneva, Switzerland).
