Nestled in Les Trois Vallées (Three Valleys) in the French Alps, Courchevel is one of France’s most desirable ski resorts with the largest linked ski area in the world. Offering over 600 kilometers of wide, well-groomed pistes for all levels, it’s one not to be missed. Courchevel is made up of several villages including Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond (1,650m), Courchevel Village (1,550m) and Courchevel Le Praz (1,300m), all named after their altitudes and each with their own personality. From cosy village vibes to extravagant glamour and glitz, Courchevel really does offer it all.
Without a doubt the best place to stay is Courchevel 1850. It is the highest village in Courchevel, making it the most snow sure all the way through to the end of the season. Courchevel 1850 is the ultimate playground for the wealthy. Boasting high-end restaurants, luxury accommodation and exceptional skiing, it’s no wonder it’s a firm favourite for the rich and famous. The Courchevel airport means you can arrive in style on your private jet before stepping foot into some of the most incredible accommodations any ski resort has to offer.
If you want to be in the heart of luxury, fine-dining and epic skiing, then Courchevel 1850 is the place to stay. It’s the most well-known village and brought Courchevel to fame, now attracting royalty and celebrities year on year. Its easy access to slopes means that many accommodations here are ski in ski out making it a delight for both beginners and seasoned skiers. From Courchevel 1850 you can head straight on to the wide, well-groomed pistes, which are perfect for beginners, or head further afield to Meribel and Val Thorens where those more advanced can take full advantage of the more challenging landscapes.
For those who want to enjoy mountain life off the slopes, Courchevel 1850 has a plethora of luxury boutiques, spas and walking trails. Gastronomy lovers will be in heaven with 8 Michelin-starred restaurants, the most in any one ski resort. The vibrant nightlife is also one to certainly not be missed.
If you’re looking for something more affordable but still want access to the incredible skiing and delicious food then Courchevel 1650 is the place for you. Also known as ‘Moriond’, it is only a 10 minute bus journey from Courchevel 1850, or a short ski. The first chairlift of the valley was installed here and it became popular in the 70s when many modern buildings were built.
Courchevel 1650 attracts a younger crowd and is more family orientated than Courchevel 1850. Here you’ll find everything you need from great restaurants, welcoming and friendly bars, a fantastic après scene and a supermarket.
Courchevel 1650 is known as the sunniest village in Courchevel and therefore makes it a desirable area to ski from. It has excellent tree lines and is often quieter than other areas as it sits at one extremity of the Three Valleys.
Courchevel 1550, also known as Courchevel Village, is a popular destination for families as it’s a cosy, quiet and peaceful village and is just 20 minutes away on the bus from Courchevel 1850. It has a mix of traditional village style chalets, hotels and self-catered apartments and is away from the nightlife that you get in the other Courchevel villages. Whilst this village is tucked away it still offers great access to the vast skiing area that Courchevel has to offer.
There are some excellent restaurants here as well as ski and clothes shops. On a Tuesday make your way through the market and grab yourself some local delicacies such as cheese and charcuterie. Courchevel Village is also a great place for tobogganing. Take the gondola up to Courchevel 1850 and make your way down the 2km trail through the snow-covered trees, a truly magical experience.
At the foot of the Courchevel Valley you will find Courchevel 1300, more commonly known as Le Praz. Although the furthest away from Courchevel 1850, the Le Praz bubble will get you to the top in just 6 minutes. A popular village for the locals, Le Praz has kept its more traditional Savoyard chalet look and feel and as a result accommodations and amenities are more reasonably priced than the other Courchevel Villages. This makes Le Praz a great location for those on a tighter budget but who do not want to compromise on the incredible skiing that the Three Valley has to offer.
For those who want to take their hand to Nordic Skiing, Le Praz is the ideal location. It boasts several ‘ski de fond’ pistes that will take you through the beautiful trees for an unforgettable experience. End your evening with the spectacular fireworks display, one of the best in the valley.
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