Guide to Skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel Villages and Ski Lifts

Courchevel is composed of six distinct villages: Saint-Bon, Le Praz (Courchevel 1300), La Tania Courchevel Village (1550), Courchevel Moriond (1650) and Courchevel (1850). Each village offers unique charm and caters to different tastes, though all provide access to the vast ski area.

Courchevel 1850

Courchevel 1850 is the highest of the villages, synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Home to designer boutiques, fine dining establishments, and opulent chalets, this is where the most discerning guests choose to stay. The area features an intricate network of ski lifts, including the Verdons gondola, which connects to beginner and intermediate slopes; the Saulire cable car, which reaches 2,738 metres and offers access to advanced and off-piste terrain; and the Chenus gondola, which provides a link to the Three Valleys ski area. Additionally, the Jardin Alpin gondola serves both beginners and those looking to access the wider ski area with ease. Some of the best ski chalets in Courchevel are found here, including the opulent Chalet Ormello and Le Petit Chateau. You’ll also find a large volume of Courchevel’s ski-in/ski-out chalets located here such as Chalet Pow Pow and Chalet Manasa.

Courchevel 1650

Courchevel 1650 is known for its sunny broad slopes. It’s a haven for intermediate skiers, with the Ariondaz gondola taking visitors to the heart of the Moriond ski area. From here, you can access long, scenic runs such as Chapelets and Bel Air. 1650 is also an excellent base for exploring tree-lined pistes that are ideal for families and intermediates alike. Chalets in Courchevel 1650 such as Bacchus and Ultima Courchevel provide fantastic bases for a luxury ski holiday close to the slopes.

Courchevel 1550

Perfect for families, Courchevel 1550 still offers luxurious accommodation but the rates tend to be lower than 1850. The Grangette gondola provides direct access to Courchevel 1850, while the Tovets chairlift allows easy entry to the broader ski area. Some of our favourite chalets are located in Courchevel 1550, including Chalet Le 1550 with its beautiful outdoor terrace and hot tub and Chalet White Sand which has its very own indoor petanque pitch!

Courchevel Le Praz

The lowest village, Courchevel Le Praz, is a traditional alpine village with narrow cobblestone streets and rustic chalets. The Praz gondola connects it to Courchevel 1850 in just a few minutes, making it an excellent choice for those seeking charm without sacrificing accessibility. The Foret chairlift also departs from Le Praz, providing additional access to the slopes. Stay in Chalet Le Moulin or Chalet Le 1992 for Savoyard charm and wellness facilities.

Courchevel Ski Area

Courchevel is part of the Three Valleys, the largest linked ski area in the world, offering 600 kilometres of interconnected pistes. Courchevel itself boasts 150 kilometres of pristine slopes, serviced by 58 state-of-the-art lifts. The area caters to all skill levels, with immaculately groomed pistes, challenging off-piste terrain, and a variety of family-friendly zones.

The resort’s modern lift system ensures minimal waiting times, allowing you to maximise your time on the slopes. The Saulire cable car, which ascends to 2,738 metres, offers breathtaking views and provides access to both the Courchevel and Méribel valleys. For those seeking adventure, the ski area’s off-piste routes and heli-skiing experiences deliver an unparalleled adrenaline rush. The Verdons gondola and Biollay chairlift are particularly convenient for accessing beginner and intermediate slopes, while the Aiguille du Fruit chairlift opens up more advanced terrain.

Courchevel Skiing

Beginner Skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel is an excellent destination for beginners, with gentle slopes, expert instruction, and a variety of green and easy blue runs. The ZEN (Zones for Evolution of Novices) areas are specifically designed for first-time skiers, offering wide, forgiving pistes and safe environments to build confidence.

In Courchevel 1850, the Bellecôte and Pralong areas are perfect for beginners, with magic carpets and easy-to-navigate terrain. The Jardin Alpin zone also provides a serene setting for those new to the sport. For families, the Altiport area features snow-covered meadows and gentle inclines, making it ideal for children and novice skiers. Courchevel Village (1550) also offers beginner-friendly slopes with quick access via the Grangettes gondola.

Intermediate Slopes in Courchevel

Intermediate skiers will find Courchevel to be a paradise of blue and red runs, offering variety and challenge in equal measure. The tree-lined slopes of Courchevel Moriond (1650) are particularly popular, with long, sweeping runs such as Chapelets and Bel Air. These pistes provide stunning views and the perfect balance of exhilaration and accessibility.

The Saulire sector is another highlight for intermediate skiers. Runs like Creux and Marmottes are wide and scenic, allowing skiers to carve effortlessly through the snow. Courchevel’s advanced grooming ensures optimal conditions, even for those venturing into more challenging terrain. The Biollay and Coqs chairlifts offer quick access to a variety of mid-level runs, ensuring intermediates are never far from their next adventure.

Advanced Skiing in Courchevel

For seasoned skiers, Courchevel offers some of the most thrilling and demanding terrain in the Alps. The couloirs accessed from the Saulire peak are legendary, with steep gradients and technical challenges. The Grand Couloir, in particular, is a must-try for expert skiers seeking a heart-pounding descent.

Off-piste enthusiasts will revel in the untouched powder fields and backcountry routes. Experienced guides are available to ensure safety and maximise the experience, taking you to hidden spots that showcase Courchevel’s wilder side. Popular off-piste areas include Les Avals and La Vizelle, known for their deep snow and awe-inspiring vistas. Advanced skiers can also take advantage of the Chanrossa chairlift to reach some of the area’s most challenging terrain.

Cross-Country Skiing in Courchevel

If you prefer the tranquillity of cross-country skiing, Courchevel offers an extensive network of trails that wind through its pristine alpine landscape. With over 66 kilometres of marked cross-country trails, the resort caters to all levels, from beginners seeking a leisurely experience to seasoned skiers looking for a challenge.

One of the most popular trails begins in Courchevel Le Praz (1300) and loops through the scenic Lac de la Rosière area. This route offers breathtaking views and gentle gradients, making it ideal for those new to the sport. More experienced skiers might enjoy the trails that ascend toward the Altiport area or connect the different villages, providing a mix of uphill challenges and rewarding downhill stretches.

Top Ski Schools in Courchevel

ESF:

The ESF (École du Ski Français) is the largest and one of the most established ski schools in Courchevel, with a reputation for professionalism and expertise that spans decades. Offering lessons in multiple languages, ESF is known for its extensive range of group and private lessons for skiers of all ages and abilities. For children, their Piou-Piou Club provides an excellent introduction to skiing in a safe, fun environment, while adults can benefit from their technical clinics or off-piste guiding services. With a team of over 500 instructors in Courchevel alone, ESF guarantees flexibility and options tailored to individual needs.

New Generation:

New Generation brings a fresh and dynamic approach to ski tuition, making it particularly appealing to those who value a modern and personal touch. Smaller group sizes and English-speaking instructors make it a popular choice for British visitors. The school also places a strong emphasis on confidence-building, which is particularly beneficial for nervous skiers or those returning to the slopes after a break. New Generation is equally adept at helping advanced skiers master tricky terrains, offering bespoke coaching sessions that include video analysis to enhance performance.

Oxygene Ski & Snowboard School:

Oxygene combines family-friendly services with innovative teaching techniques. Its dedicated instructors are known for their warmth and enthusiasm, making it an excellent option for families with young children or mixed-ability groups. Oxygene also stands out for its adaptive ski programme, providing equipment and tuition tailored to individuals with disabilities. Additionally, they offer a wide range of activities beyond skiing, such as snowboarding lessons and guided snowshoeing tours, ensuring that everyone in the group can enjoy their alpine experience.

Snow D’Light:

Snow D’Light has carved a niche for itself with its bespoke private lessons and focus on delivering a truly personalised experience. The instructors take the time to understand your specific goals, crafting lessons that suit your ability, pace, and preferences. Their flexibility extends to meeting points, allowing skiers to start their lessons at a location most convenient to them. Snow D’Light is particularly well-regarded for its off-piste guiding, where experienced instructors take skiers to some of Courchevel’s most stunning and untouched powder fields.

Supreme Ski:

Supreme Ski is synonymous with high-end tuition and exceptional service, catering to those who seek a truly premium experience. With an elite team of instructors who undergo rigorous selection and training, Supreme Ski ensures that every lesson is of the highest quality. They specialise in private tuition and small group sessions, allowing for highly focused instruction. Supreme Ski is also known for its client-centric approach, offering tailored itineraries and insider tips on the best spots to ski, dine, and relax in Courchevel.

Luxury Ski Experiences in Courchevel

Torchilight Descent

Imagine skiing down the slopes of Courchevel at night, a flaming torch in your hand, lighting up the mountain as you glide through the quiet alpine landscape. This isn’t just a show to watch – it’s an experience you can be part of. The torchlight descent in Courchevel invites you to join a magical procession of skiers, each with a torch, creating a stunning golden river of light flowing down the mountain. You’ll be guided by professionals who ensure your safety while you enjoy the serene beauty of the snowy peaks surrounding you.

As the evening unfolds, you can add even more magic to the experience with a delicious dinner in one of the resort's mountain restaurants or perhaps a spectacular fireworks display to cap off the night.

Top Tips for a Ski Holiday in Courchevel

Best Time to Visit Courchevel for Skiing

Late December to early January and February school holidays are the most popular times to visit Courchevel, offering vibrant après-ski and a festive atmosphere. Courchevel luxury accommodation gets booked up well in advance so make sure you plan ahead if your are thinking of visiting during these peak weeks. January and late March provide quieter slopes and excellent snow conditions, particularly in January when temperatures are colder. April offers longer days and sunny weather, ideal for leisurely skiing and terrace lunches.

Courchevel Ski Pass Options

Choose from the local Courchevel pass, perfect for beginners or those planning to stay within Courchevel’s boundaries. You’ll have access to 150 km of slopes, including green and blue runs. For more experienced skiers we recommend opting for the 3 Vallées Pass. This gives you access to 600 km of slopes across Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens. It is also worth noting that Courchevel is part of the Epic Pass, giving you access to some of the world's top ski destinations across North America, Europe, Australia, and Japan.

Renting Equipment in Courchevel

If you’re travelling light or prefer not to bring your own equipment, Courchevel offers several high-end rental shops with top-quality ski and snowboard gear. We recommend L'Atelier which stands out for its premium service, providing the latest models and expert fittings to ensure maximum performance and comfort. For added convenience, many rental outlets such as WhiteStorm can do fittings in the privacy of your luxury Courchevel chalet.

Restaurant Reservations

With Courchevel's reputation for Michelin-starred dining, you will need to book your tables well ahead of time, particularly popular mountain restaurants like Bagatelle and Le Chalet des Pierres. Alternatively, by booking with Leo Trippi we can make reservations on your behalf.

-> Discover the best bars and restaurants in Courchevel

Explore Beyond the Slopes

There are plenty of alternative activities to enjoy besides skiing. Indulge in luxury spas, such as Aquamotion, offering indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and a surf wave pool. Non-skiers can enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, or boutique shopping along the chic Courchevel 1850 promenade.

-> Discover more in our guide to the best winter activities in Courchevel.

How to Get to Courchevel

Flying to Courchevel

Courchevel is situated in the Tarentaise Valley in southeast France, within the Savoie province of the Rhone-Alpes region. Conveniently located, Courchevel is within a two-hour drive from four international airports, making it highly accessible for travellers. For most visitors, Geneva International Airport is the easiest option, offering frequent flights from a variety of destinations at competitive prices. From Geneva, it takes about two hours and 25 minutes to reach Courchevel by road. Closer airports, such as Chambery, Grenoble, and Lyon, reduce transfer times to 1 hour 30 minutes or just over two hours, though flights to these locations tend to be less frequent and often more expensive.

Airport Transfers to Courchevel

Once you’ve arrived at your chosen airport, the onward journey to Courchevel can be tailored to your preferences. Private transfers are a popular choice for their speed and comfort, with companies like Chabé offering luxurious services, or Alp Savoie Transfers providing high-end vehicles, including Mercedes Class V. Shared transfers are a cost-effective alternative but may involve additional stops en route. Renting a car is another option, providing flexibility to explore the region, though driving in winter conditions requires proper preparation. For those seeking affordability, buses connect many airports directly to the resort.

Courchevel Heli-Transfers

If you’re seeking an even quicker arrival experience, Courchevel boasts its own altiport at 2,007 metres above sea level. Its short and steep runway allows only select aircraft to land, making it one of the most exclusive ways to reach the resort. Alpine Airlines provides commercial flights to Courchevel’s altiport, while Heli Securite offers premium heli-transfers with a flight time of just 30 minutes.

Getting to Courchevel by Train

Another convenient option is travelling by train. The Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains station, located just 24 km from the resort, connects Courchevel to both Paris and London. Trains from Paris typically take four to six hours, while Eurostar operates direct services from London St Pancras. Upon arrival in Moûtiers, a private transfer or bus will take you to Courchevel in approximately 35 minutes.

Driving to Courchevel

Driving to Courchevel offers freedom and flexibility but requires preparation for winter conditions. Snow tyres and chains are essential, as weather can change rapidly. It’s also important to familiarise yourself with French driving regulations and ensure you carry the necessary documentation. Once in Courchevel, parking may be limited, so reserving a space in advance is highly recommended if your accommodation does not provide it.

Summary

From the immaculate pistes to the world-class dining and accommodation, Courchevel offers an unparalleled ski holiday experience. With its blend of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and exceptional skiing, Courchevel remains the destination of choice for discerning travellers seeking the ultimate winter escape.