Courchevel is luxury alpine resort in the Savoie region of the French Alps, located in The Three Valleys (Les 3 Vallées). Courchevel 1850 is the highest of the Courchevel resorts with an altitude of between 1750 and 1900 metres above sea level. It’s a popular, upmarket spot that attracts those seeking an exclusive skiing holiday.
If you’re considering visiting this privileged resort, our guide will explain everything you need to know from when to travel to where to eat as well as the best activities for when you’re not hitting the slopes.
The best time to visit
It’s fair to say that those experiencing luxury holidays in Courchevel 1850 are there for the impressive, snow-sure conditions. The high altitude coupled with the predominantly north-facing slopes means the resort is a great choice for keen skiers.
With excellent skiing conditions, typically from December to April, you can enjoy incredible snow quality and stunning views for most of the season. While January generally offers the ideal conditions, with deep powder, spring provides beautiful sunny skies and slightly warmer temperatures.
As with many ski resorts, Christmas, New Year and February half term are generally some of the busiest times to visit but you’ll find a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities.
The area
In total, the Three Valleys offers over 600km of snowy pistes, meaning you’ll never struggle to find new runs. Courchevel 1850 is an ideal resort for all abilities, whether you’re skiing or snowboarding.
There are plenty of ski school options for adults and children if you or your family are just starting out. With private and group lessons available, and with the majority taught in English and French, you’ll be in good hands on the nursery slopes and on the variety of green runs.
Once you’ve found your ski legs, there are plenty of blue runs to practice your skills. Higher up the mountain you’ll find more challenging red runs and, for those expert skiers, an array of black runs and off-piste terrain.
The resort also offers a range of ski lifts that provide quick access to mountain runs an, of course, incredible views.
Activities
For those non-skiers, of if you just want a bit of time away from the slopes, there are plenty of activities in the resort to keep you and your family entertained.
Winter activities include tobogganing, Nordic walking and cross-country skiing, dogsledding and snowshoeing. You can even try ice skating and climbing. There is also a nearby aqua centre with a swimming pool, water slides and spa facilities.
Into designer goods and luxury shopping? Courchevel offers some great shopping opportunities with famous designer stores, technical and sports equipment providers, and independent shops where you can pick up gifts or treat yourself.
The food and drink scene is excellent too with a choice of bars, cafes and lively clubs to grab a drink or two, enjoy some famous après ski dishes or party the night away. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from with fine dining experiences as well as more relaxed, family-friendly options such as Black Pearl and Le Grill.
Accommodation
Accommodation options are varied and cater to all tastes. Choose from apartments, chalet hotels, cosy rooms and luxury boutiques. There’s a wide choice of ski in-ski out places to stay making Courchevel great for convenience.
The resort might be known as a playground for the rich and famous but it’s easy to see why this French Alpine gem remains a popular paradise for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
Images © Courchevel Tourisme
