Expect exceptional skiing and snowboarding across varied terrain at Courchevel - the pistes flow beautifully, the snow stays in pristine condition, and you can ski for days without repeating a run. The lift system is state-of-the-art, grooming impeccable, and the scale genuinely impressive. A north-facing aspect and good altitude ensure reliable snow, while the wooded runs in lower areas provide shelter and scenery.

From gentle cruisers through the trees to steep technical descents and the famous couloirs of Saulire, there's a satisfaction here that comes from meticulous mountain planning - with the entire Three Valleys as your extended playground.

Skiing for beginners in Courchevel

Courchevel is one of the best places in the Alps to learn. Each village has its own gentle nursery slopes, so you can find your feet without navigating busy lift systems. The beginner areas at 1850 and 1650 are particularly well-designed, with magic carpet lifts and progression zones that let you build confidence at your own pace.

Once you're ready, long green runs wind through the trees - wide enough that you'll never feel rushed by faster skiers. The ski schools are among the best in the Alps, and English-speaking instruction is standard.

Intermediate skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel is a paradise for intermediates, with kilometre after kilometre of perfectly groomed blues and reds that let you rack up vertical without breaking a sweat. The Verdons run from Saulire is a highlight - a sweeping, confidence-building descent that showcases what Courchevel does best. For something more challenging, the reds from Col de la Loze open up the connection to Méribel, while the Creux area offers quiet, forested runs away from the main thoroughfares.

The Three Valleys connection means you'll have enough to ski for weeks. Blue runs link you to neighbouring resorts when you're ready to explore further - ski to Méribel for lunch, continue to Val Thorens, and still not cover everything.

WeSki insider tip: The Bouc Blanc chairlift accesses some of the quietest intermediate terrain in Courchevel - head there mid-morning when most skiers are still on the main lifts.

Advanced and expert skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel has plenty of technical terrain to keep experts busy. The Grand Couloir - a steep, narrow chute accessed from Saulire - is one of the most iconic expert runs in France, demanding precise edge control and genuine commitment. The neighbouring Petit Couloir offers a slightly less intense alternative.

Beyond the marked runs, the entire Three Valleys opens up, with chutes, bowls, and backcountry tours for those who want to go deeper. The Chanrossa sector offers sustained steep pitches and excellent off-piste entry points, while the north-facing slopes above 1850 hold powder long after a storm. Tree-lined paths between Courchevel and La Tania provide natural guidance on low-visibility days and often hide untracked lines.

Snowboarding in Courchevel

Courchevel's varied slopes work well for snowboarders, with minimal flat sections and a modern lift system that's largely gondola and chairlift-based. The natural features around La Tania and the Plantrey area provide good freeriding, while the groomed runs flow smoothly enough to maintain speed throughout.

The Family Park has features for different abilities, and the Three Valleys opens up extensive riding opportunities - wooded runs provide natural hits, and the off-piste potential rewards exploration.

Off-piste skiing in Courchevel

Courchevel's off-piste possibilities extend far beyond the famous Grand Couloir. The Creux Noirs sector, the powder fields above Moriond, and the itineraries towards La Tania all reward exploration. For serious backcountry adventures, guides based in Courchevel can take you into the Vanoise National Park or across to hidden valleys away from the lift system.

Courchevel snow school and lessons

Courchevel has an excellent selection of ski schools, with ESF and several international alternatives offering lessons in English. Group classes suit all ages and abilities, while private instruction is readily available for faster progression or specialised coaching.

Through WeSki, you can add ski or snowboard lessons to your package and have everything arranged before you arrive. Check out Courchevel ski deals to get started.

Courchevel snow parks

The Family Park at Courchevel 1850 offers jumps, rails, and features for all levels, from first-time freestylers to confident riders looking to progress. A boardercross course adds variety for racing your mates. Freestyle isn't Courchevel's main draw, but the park is well-maintained throughout the season with regular shaping.

Courchevel piste map

1. Courchevel Family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Courchevel
3. Planning your trip in Courchevel
4. How to get to Courchevel
5. Courchevel FAQs

Courchevel family ski holiday

Courchevel is arguably one of the most family-friendly resorts in the Alps. The luxury image shouldn't deter families - choose the right village and accommodation and you'll find a welcoming atmosphere alongside world-class skiing. Each village has dedicated beginner areas where children can learn away from faster traffic, and the ski schools here are experienced at turning hesitant youngsters into confident skiers.

For the littlest ones, childcare facilities operate throughout the season, including the Village des Enfants, which takes children from 18 months.

Off the slopes, Courchevel has plenty to keep everyone entertained. The Aquamotion centre in Courchevel 1650 is a highlight - a vast complex with pools, slides, and a surf simulator that gives tired legs a proper break from the mountain. Children of all ages love activities like toboggan runs and ice skating at the Forum, while teenagers can test themselves in the snow park or explore terrain on their own. The free shuttle buses between villages mean older kids can have some independence without parents worrying about logistics.

Dining works well for families here. You'll find relaxed brasseries serving crowd-pleasing French classics, mountain restaurants with sunny terraces, and pizzerias that keep everyone happy. While Courchevel is famous for its Michelin-starred restaurants, there's plenty at the other end of the spectrum too - generous portions, welcoming service, and no stuffiness.

Things to do in Courchevel

Courchevel offers far more than exceptional skiing. As one of the Alps' most prestigious resorts, it's invested heavily in off-slope experiences, delivering a huge variety of activities for skiers and non-skiers alike.

Snow activities

Beyond the pistes, Courchevel boasts one of the most extensive selections of snow-based activities in the Alps. Expert mountain guides, varied terrain, and excellent facilities combine to create unforgettable winter experiences both on and off the slopes.

• Snowshoeing: Guided snowshoe excursions through quiet forests and high alpine pastures, ideal for scenic exploration.
• Dog sledding: Traditional dog sledding adventures with Siberian huskies through snow-covered landscapes.
• Ice climbing: Guided ascents on frozen waterfalls for adventurous climbers seeking a technical challenge.
• Surf simulator: Indoor surf simulator offering a fun, unexpected alternative to snow sports.
• Paragliding: Tandem flights providing spectacular aerial views over Courchevel and the surrounding mountains.
• Ski touring & freeriding: Expert-led ski touring and freeride adventures, including routes into the Vanoise National Park.
• Night skiing: Atmospheric evening skiing sessions on illuminated pistes in selected areas of the resort.
• Tobogganing: Dedicated toboggan runs offering fast, fun descents for all ages.
• Olympic ski jump tours: Behind-the-scenes visits to the Olympic ski jumps at Le Praz, showcasing Courchevel's sporting heritage.
• Ice driving: Adrenaline-fuelled ice driving experiences on frozen circuits for thrill seekers.
• Heli-skiing: Advanced heli-ski experiences accessing untouched powder fields beyond the resort.

Non-snow activities

Whether you're taking a rest day, travelling with non-skiers, or simply want a change of pace, Courchevel combines world-class leisure facilities with luxury shopping, wellness, and unique alpine experiences - all without needing to put skis on.

• Aquamotion: One of Europe's largest mountain leisure centres, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, slides, spa zones, wellness areas, and a surf simulator.
• Spa & wellness treatments: Exceptional spa experiences at Courchevel's luxury hotels, offering massages, thermal facilities, and holistic treatments.
• Cinema screenings: Modern cinemas in Courchevel 1850 showing the latest releases throughout the season.
• Designer shopping: High-end boutiques in Courchevel 1850, including luxury fashion, jewellery, and ski lifestyle brands.
• Art galleries & exhibitions: Small galleries and rotating exhibitions showcasing contemporary and alpine-inspired art.
• Indoor tennis & fitness: Indoor sports facilities including tennis courts, gyms, and fitness studios.
• Helicopter sightseeing: Scenic helicopter flights offering breathtaking views over Courchevel and the Three Valleys.
• Bowling & games: Bowling alley and indoor games complex for relaxed, family-friendly evenings.
• Winter walking trails: Cleared forest paths ideal for peaceful winter strolls without skis.

Courchevel restaurants

Courchevel boasts the highest concentration of fine dining of any ski resort in the world - but you certainly don't need to spend a fortune to eat well here. Alongside Michelin-starred destinations, you'll find traditional Savoyard favourites, relaxed mountain lunches, and casual spots perfect for refuelling between ski sessions.

• Le Chabichou: Two Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Savoyard cuisine with a contemporary twist.
• Le 1947: Three Michelin stars and the ultimate splurge, offering exceptional tasting menus and flawless service.
• La Saulire: Iconic mountain restaurant with a panoramic terrace, renowned for excellent tartiflette and classic alpine dishes.
• Azimut: One Michelin-starred dining at altitude, combining creative cuisine with spectacular mountain views.
• Le Bel Air: Popular slope-side restaurant near the Verdons lift, ideal for a long, relaxed lunch.
• La Chapelle: Traditional Savoyard fare served in a warm, wood-clad dining room with alpine charm.
• Le Tremplin: Relaxed terrace dining at the foot of the slopes in Courchevel 1850, perfect for people-watching.
• La Cave des Creux: Atmospheric cellar restaurant specialising in fondue and raclette — advance booking recommended.
• Le Bouc Blanc: Unpretentious mountain restaurant with a sunny terrace, generous portions, and fair prices.
• Le Cap Horn: Stylish restaurant known for excellent seafood, sushi, and a lively terrace atmosphere.

Courchevel après-ski

Après-ski in Courchevel is firmly on the sophisticated end of the spectrum. This is a resort where champagne bars, elegant hotel lounges, and stylish terraces take centre stage - its quality over quantity, people-watching over partying, and cocktails rather than cheap beer. Courchevel 1850 is the most glamorous hub, while the surrounding villages offer a more relaxed and approachable atmosphere.

The après scene typically begins on the mountain as the lifts close, before drifting into the village for aperitifs and late dinners, following classic French dining rhythms. For those who want to continue into the night, there are clubs and late-opening bars (though prices tend to reflect the resort's luxury reputation). In 1650, La Tania, and Le Praz, the mood is noticeably more laid-back, with cosy bars and a friendly, sociable feel.

Recommended après-ski spots include:

• La Folie Douce: Legendary on-mountain terrace party with DJs, dancers, and live performances as the lifts wind down.
• Le Tremplin: Popular terrace bar at the foot of the slopes in 1850, ideal for stylish sundowners and people-watching.
• Manali Club: Upscale nightclub attracting the glamorous Courchevel 1850 crowd for late-night dancing.
• Les Caves de Courchevel: Lively nightclub with regular live music and a younger, energetic crowd.
• Le Piggy's: Lively pub-style bar offering British beers, sports on screens, and a buzzing après atmosphere.
• The Mangeoire: Friendly, relaxed bar known for its welcoming vibe and sociable evenings.
• Le Signal (1650): Relaxed wine bar with an excellent selection of local and regional wines.
• Le Kalico (La Tania): La Tania's main bar, offering easy-going drinks and a laid-back après scene.

Courchevel map

Planning your trip to Courchevel

Courchevel accommodation

Courchevel spans six villages, each with its own character and price point. Courchevel 1850 is the luxury hub, with designer hotels, premium chalets, prices to match. Moriond (1650) offers excellent skiing access at more moderate rates. Village (1550) suits families wanting a quieter base. Le Praz has traditional Savoyard charm and Olympic heritage. La Tania provides purpose-built convenience at the best value.

The villages are interconnected by lifts, so your choice affects the atmosphere and budget more than skiing access. Decide what matters most - proximity to fine dining, family-friendly quietness, traditional character, or value - and choose accordingly.

WeSki insider tips:

• Le Praz offers strong value with easy lift access - the gondola to 1850 is fast and rarely queues.
• If nightlife matters, stay in 1850 or Moriond - the last buses between villages run relatively early.
• La Tania works well for families who want ski-in/ski-out convenience without the 1850 price tag.

Courchevel ski pass

The main decision is whether you need just Courchevel or the full Three Valleys. The Courchevel-only pass covers 150km of pistes across all five villages and is sufficient for a week if you're intermediate or learning. The Three Valleys pass unlocks 600km of skiing across Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens, but that's really only worthwhile if you're confident and want to explore additional kilometres skiing or snowboarding.

For convenience, you can choose ski pass options when booking your Courchevel ski holiday on WeSki.

Equipment hire

Courchevel has rental shops in every village, from budget options to high-end specialists with the latest gear. Pre-booking is strongly recommended during peak weeks - it saves time on arrival and often secures better rates. Most shops offer overnight storage, so you don't need to carry equipment back to your accommodation.

WeSki partners with SkiSet shops in Courchevel, letting you add equipment to your package and collect on arrival. You'll find SkiSet locations in Le Praz, 1550, 1650, and 1850, plus La Tania - so wherever you're based, pickup is straightforward. Browse Courchevel ski deals to build your perfect trip.

Getting around Courchevel

Free shuttle buses connect all six Courchevel villages throughout the day, running approximately every 15-20 minutes on the main routes. The service continues into the evening, though frequency drops after the lifts close. Courchevel's lift system also connects villages, so you can ski between them rather than using road transport. The Gare gondola links Le Praz to 1850 in minutes, while the Jardin Alpin gondola connects 1850 and 1550 (both are covered by your ski pass and quicker than the bus for these routes).

Within 1850, most things are walkable, though the village does spread across multiple levels. Taxis are available but expensive - worth having a number saved for late nights after the buses stop. If you're staying in Le Praz or La Tania and want flexibility for evening dining in 1850, factor in either taxi costs or the last bus time when making plans.

How to get to Courchevel

Geneva is the most popular airport for UK travellers, approximately 150km from Courchevel. Chambéry is closer at around 100km and often has seasonal charter flights, while Lyon and Grenoble are also viable options. The famous Courchevel Altiport sits right in the resort, thrilling to land at but served by limited connections.

Train travel is possible via Moûtiers, which has direct TGV connections from Paris and is around 25km from the resort. From there, buses and taxis complete the journey. If you plan on self-driving, keep in mind that the mountain roads are well-maintained but winding, so allow time for the final approach to the higher villages.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private and shared transfers to Courchevel. Add them to your Courchevel ski package for seamless door-to-door travel.

Courchevel FAQs

Is Courchevel good for beginners?

Courchevel is excellent for beginners. Each village has dedicated nursery areas with gentle slopes and magic carpet lifts, making it easy to learn without navigating busy pistes. The ski schools are highly experienced at teaching first-timers, with English-speaking instructors widely available. Once you've found your feet, long green runs wind through the trees, giving you space to practise without pressure.

How does Courchevel compare to other Three Valleys resorts?

Courchevel sits at the northern end of the Three Valleys and is known for its impeccable grooming, efficient lift system, and upmarket atmosphere. Compared to Méribel (more British, excellent intermediate terrain), Les Menuires (better value, purpose-built), and Val Thorens (highest, most snow-sure), Courchevel offers more variety in its village bases and arguably the best overall piste maintenance. It tends to attract a more international, affluent crowd, particularly in 1850.

Is Courchevel expensive?

Courchevel has a reputation as one of the most expensive ski resorts in the world - and in parts of 1850, that reputation is deserved. However, the picture is more nuanced than the headlines suggest. Le Praz, La Tania, and 1550 offer more affordable accommodation without sacrificing ski access. Mountain restaurants range from eye-watering to reasonable if you know where to look. Self-catering and aparthotel options bring costs down significantly, and early booking often unlocks better rates. It's absolutely possible to ski Courchevel without breaking the bank - you just need to plan smart.

How reliable is the snow in Courchevel?

Courchevel has good natural snowfall and extensive snowmaking that covers the key runs back to all villages. The north-facing slopes above 1850 hold snow well, while the connection to the Three Valleys means you can always find good conditions somewhere in the ski area. The season typically runs from early December through mid-April, with the most reliable conditions usually found from mid-December onwards. The lower villages (Le Praz particularly) can struggle in warm spells, but the snowmaking generally keeps the return runs open.

Which Courchevel village should I stay in?

It depends on your priorities. Courchevel 1850 is the most convenient for skiing and nightlife but the most expensive. Courchevel 1650 (Moriond) offers a good balance of access, atmosphere, and value - plus Aquamotion is there. Courchevel 1550 (Village) suits families wanting a quiet base with easy gondola access to 1850. Le Praz (1300) has genuine village charm and the best value. La Tania is technically separate but shares the ski area - great for families and those seeking a more intimate atmosphere in the trees.

Are there long lift queues in Courchevel?

Courchevel has invested heavily in its lift infrastructure, with multiple high-speed gondolas and chairlifts serving the main areas. Queues are generally manageable, even in peak weeks - though the Saulire gondola (accessing the Méribel connection) can build up at mid-morning. The Verdons area tends to be quieter than the main 1850 lifts, and La Tania's lifts rarely see significant waits. Arriving at lifts before 9am or after lunchtime helps avoid any congestion.

Is Courchevel good for families?

Courchevel is one of the best family ski resorts in the Alps. The dedicated beginner areas, experienced ski schools, and childcare facilities make it straightforward for families with young children. The Aquamotion centre in 1650 provides an excellent non-skiing option, while the toboggan runs, ice skating, and snow activities keep older children and teenagers entertained. Dining is family-friendly across all villages, and the free shuttle buses make getting around with children manageable.

How does Courchevel connect to the Three Valleys?

The lift system links Courchevel to Méribel via Saulire, and from there to Val Thorens and Les Menuires. You can ski the entire 600km on one Three Valleys pass. The connections are efficient - reaching Méribel takes around 20 minutes skiing from Courchevel 1850.

Explore other resorts in France

Val Thorens - La Plagne - Chamonix - Tignes - Avoriaz - Val d'Isère - Méribel - Les Arcs - Les Menuires - Flaine - La Clusaz - Serre Chevalier - Samoëns - La Rosière - Montgenèvre - Val Cenis - Megève - St Martin de Belleville - Isola 2000 - Risoul - Valmorel - Les Gets - Morzine - Les Deux Alpes - Alpe d'Huez - Vaujany - Sainte Foy Tarentaise - Saint Gervais les bains - Châtel - Les Houches - Les Sybelles - Les Carroz - Les Contamines-Montjoie - Les Orres - Les Saisies