Courchevel Village (1550) is a relaxed and family-friendly base in the heart of Courchevel, offering fantastic skiing, attractive luxury chalets and quick connections to neighbouring Courchevel 1850.
Quieter and generally better value than 1850, the village is an excellent choice for families and keen skiers who want to make the most of the Three Valleys while enjoying a more laid-back atmosphere.
Skiing in Courchevel Village Courchevel Village has superb access to the mountain, with fast lifts taking you directly towards Courchevel 1850 and onwards into the wider Three Valleys ski area, home to around 600km of interconnected pistes.
The village is also well suited to families and beginners, with gentle slopes and ski school meeting points conveniently located around the snow front.
One of its biggest advantages is the Grangettes gondola, which remains open until 23:30. This makes it incredibly easy to head up to Courchevel 1850 for dinner, drinks or an evening out before returning to the quieter surroundings of 1550.
Alternatively, take the floodlit toboggan run back down from 1850 - a fun way to end the evening and always a favourite with families.
Staying in Courchevel Village Courchevel Village has developed considerably over the years and now offers some lovely luxury chalets and apartments, many within easy reach of the lifts.
There is a small but welcoming selection of restaurants and bars, where locals and holidaymakers mingle, giving the village a friendly and relaxed feel.
Just below the resort is Aquamotion Courchevel, an impressive aquatic and wellness centre with swimming pools, indoor and outdoor lagoons, spa facilities and activities for children. It’s a great addition for rest days, après-ski and non-skiers.
A Great Alternative to Courchevel 1850 Courchevel Village strikes a great balance between convenience and value. The slopes are on your doorstep and glamorous Courchevel 1850 is only a short gondola ride away, yet accommodation here can offer considerably better value.
Courchevel’s villages each have their own character: 1850 is renowned for glamour and luxury, Moriond 1650 for its lively, family-friendly atmosphere, while Le Praz offers a more traditional Alpine setting. Together, they provide a variety of bases from which to discover Courchevel and the wider Three Valleys, including Méribel, Val Thorens and beyond.
For those looking for luxury ski accommodation in Courchevel, excellent skiing and easy access to everything 1850 has to offer, Courchevel Village 1550 is a fantastic choice.
Ski Guide
Our recommendation would be to get the full 3 Valleys pass for everyone except complete beginners, as there is spectacular skiing to suit all levels of ability across the 3 Valleys, and you will want to take advantage of the vast ski domain at your ski tips.
Altitude: 1,300 – 1,850m. Skiable Range: 1,260 – 3,230m. Longest Run: 7.9 km from La Saulire to Le Praz (12 km in Val Thorens). Ski terrain (3 Valleys): Pistes 600 km (Courchevel Valley 150 km). Green 20%, Blue 36%, Red 34%, Black 10%. Snowmaking: 43% of the slopes have snow cannons.
⛰︎ Off-Piste Itineraries
The Saulire couloirs and bowl are always popular when the conditions are right, and after fresh snow in Courchevel 1650 you will find great routes down through the trees and under the lifts.
★ Famous Ski Runs
‘Jean Blanc’ was the original World Cup downhill piste when the tour went to Courchevel. In 2023, 'L'Eclipse' was built for the Alpine World Ski Championships, running from the top of La Loze all the way down to Le Praz.
♥ Our Favourite Ski Runs
Greens: Bellecote, Jardin Alpins and Renard; all just above Courchevel 1850 and accessed by the Jardin Alpin & Bellecote lifts. Blues: Les Creux, above Courchevel 1850, and Les Indiens down through the trees above Courchevel 1650, where you will find a native Indian encampment – stop off for a photo and to practise your archery skills. Reds: Marmotte / Park City above Courchevel 1850, and Bel Air over towards Courchevel 1650. Blacks: Jockeys and Jean Blanc which both lead back into Le Praz, and M which has a lovely steep pitch.
✵ Top Tip
Many of the new chairlifts are fitted with the ‘Magnestick’, which holds the safety bar down until it is close to the top of the lift, when it releases automatically. It is a little disconcerting when you first use one & try to open it early in anticipation of the lift arrival.
There is skiing to suit every level and every taste here – from challenging to cruisy runs between coffee and lunch stops. A network of lifts and pistes fan out from 1850 where La Croisette is the hub of the resort. The lift system in Courchevel (indeed in all the resorts of the 3 Valleys) is impressive with a high proportion of fast chairs and gondolas. The resort has a northerly orientation, excellent snowmaking facilities and is managed and groomed expertly so snow conditions are usually excellent.
There are excellent beginner areas in & around 1850 especially in the Jardin Alpin and the Pralong area by the Altiport. These slopes are well served by fast lifts including the Verdons and the Jardin Alpin gondolas. There are also a number of free lifts serving the beginner areas dotted across the 4 villages that make up Courchevel, but the most extensive area for those starting out or who need to build their confidence is definitely in 1850.
Courchevel especially, but also the whole of the Trois Vallées area is fantastic for intermediate skiers – this is an area where you can really get some miles under your belt and build your confidence. One of our favourites is to head up to the top of Saulire and ski down on Les Creux, a wonderful wide, cruisy blue run and definitely one worth getting first lift up for.
For something a little more challenging there are so many beautiful red runs to choose from it’s hard to really rank them. We have two favourites here – one of which is admittedly connected to a lunch stop. We recommend that you take first lift up to top of Vizelle and then ski the reds Marmottes & Park City down to the Chanrossa chair. A quick breather on the chair up and then ski down Jean Pachod – an exhilarating ski. Another favourite is over in the 1650 area – the short Bel Air run and then go back up the chair and ski down to the Bel Air restaurant to enjoy a great salad and the amazing views from their sun deck.
More challenging still are Les Suisses or M down from Vizelle; great steep, bumps and not for the feint-hearted. M is often beautifully quiet, and Les Suisses definitely challenges for having some of the steepest and biggest bumps we’ve seen anywhere. In good snow conditions advanced skiers also shouldn’t miss the blacks from the top of Col de la Loze into Le Praz. These wind down tightly through the trees and if you link Dou des Lanches with Jockeys you will ski nearly 1000m of vertical black.
The Courchevel Valley & 3 Valleys have some incredible off-piste skiing so this is a place to book a guide and explore. Les Avals off the Chanrossa chair is a stunning area, bordering on the Vanoise National Park. You need to be quick after fresh snow fall if you want to get there before the locals have tracked it out – let us know if you’re planning a big day of guiding and we will consult the forecasts for you to pick the best bluebird day. *Always ski off-piste with a qualified mountain guide
There is terrain to suit everyone from beginner to expert. Indeed, many visitors never feel the need to leave the Courchevel valley, despite having the rest of the Trois Vallées to explore.
A majestic setting and large terrace set the tone for a festive mountain lunch. The menu mixes Mediterranean flavours with Asian fusion, backed by an impressive vintage wine selection. Be advised, this is not a quick pit-stop. Check the program for International DJ sets. Pedestrian and beginner-skier friendly.
A majestic setting and large terrace set the tone for a festive mountain lunch. The menu mixes Mediterranean flavours with Asian fusion, backed by an impressive vintage wine selection. Be advised, this is not a quick pit-stop. Check the program for International DJ sets. Pedestrian and beginner-skier friendly.
A majestic setting and large terrace set the tone for a festive mountain lunch. The menu mixes Mediterranean flavours with Asian fusion, backed by an impressive vintage wine selection. Be advised, this is not a quick pit-stop. Check the program for International DJ sets. Pedestrian and beginner-skier friendly.
A majestic setting and large terrace set the tone for a festive mountain lunch. The menu mixes Mediterranean flavours with Asian fusion, backed by an impressive vintage wine selection. Be advised, this is not a quick pit-stop. Check the program for International DJ sets. Pedestrian and beginner-skier friendly.
This charming chalet-style restaurant is an easy meeting point for skiers and non-skiers. Set over two floors with an elegant interior, roaring fire, sunny terrace and on-site Moncler boutique, it serves delicious Alpine classics - don’t miss the Beaufort tart - and finishes beautifully with an indulgent dessert buffet.
At 2,250m, this is a true mountain restaurant, with stunning terrace views and hearty Alpine cooking. Expect grilled meats over an open fire, truffle tagliatelle, Savoie scrambled eggs and a strong wine list. Accessible to pedestrians, with a 15-minute uphill walk back, and to beginner skiers too.
Set within the beautiful Airelles hotel, this elegant restaurant is ideal after a morning on the slopes. Easily accessible for pedestrians and beginner skiers, it offers a generous buffet of shellfish, crustaceans, rotisserie meats and other exceptional ingredients. Refined and full of flavour, it is a feast worth lingering over.
Here, luxury is not about excess, but exclusivity, authenticity and emotion. The mountain becomes yours alone, with one private table set in nature for you and your chosen circle. Reached on skis or on foot, it is more than a meal: a singular, unforgettable moment in the heart of Courchevel.
Laid-back sister spot to Michelin-starred Le Farçon in La Tania brings a relaxed take on refined Alpine dining. Expect seasonal local ingredients, comforting Savoie favourites, a sunny terrace for easy lunches and a cosy dining room when warming up is required. A lovely choice when you want something special, without the fuss.
On Courchevel 1650’s snowfront, Bistrot Manali feels surprisingly intimate for such a central spot. Skiers and walkers gather here for long, relaxed lunches, with Chef Antony Trezy adding a creative touch to generous bistro dishes. The large south-facing terrace offers panoramic views towards Courchevel 1850, perfect for a well-deserved break.
Reachable on foot or by intermediate skiers, this former Alpine cheese cellar and sheepfold is now a warm, characterful restaurant with a laid-back, lively atmosphere. The menu mixes regional classics, Asian fusion touches and fresh local ingredients. Save room for the dessert table; it is superb. Reservations are essential here.
Warm and welcoming from the moment you arrive, this is a go-to for a hearty mountain lunch or dinner. Expect exceptional meats from around the world, grilled over an open fire, lovely wines and a standout potato dauphinois on the side. Steak lovers will be very happy here.
A true Courchevel institution, this restaurant pairs French gastronomic classics with winter flavours and a wonderfully festive atmosphere. Come for the à la carte menu, then stay as the evening builds into cabaret-style entertainment, with shows and dance performances bringing energy, glamour and a real sense of occasion to the night.
This traditional farmhouse has been transformed with silky furs, designer chandeliers and sparkling mirrors, creating an elegant, intimate setting for couples or friends. The menu gives French mountain classics an elevated, playful twist, perfectly matched to the party atmosphere. Come for dinner, then stay for fun into the early hours.
Inspired by New York private clubs, this intimate Courchevel address offers chic surroundings, refined details and a fashionable atmosphere that builds as the evening unfolds. Start with a cosy dinner of French classics, like frog’s legs, and elegant Italian dishes, then stay as the mood becomes livelier and more exclusive.
For over 20 years, this restaurant and Piano Bar has delighted its guests with its refined, flavourful cuisine and lively atmosphere. As night falls, the DJ takes over, and La Mangeoire transforms into one of the resort’s top nightlife spots, turning your dinner into a lively, unforgettable experience.
Bringing sophisticated Peruvian-inspired cuisine to K2 Palace, with charcoal-grilled dishes, vibrant flavours and fresh ingredients sourced from artisan producers and sustainable farms. Colourful, beautifully balanced plates combine the warmth of traditional Peruvian cooking with a bold contemporary twist, taking diners on a memorable culinary journey through South America.
Located in the Apogée Hotel, top-quality beef meets mountain comfort, with Black Angus, Wagyu and Kobe alongside signature sauces and truffle mash. The playful menu features Beefy Cordon Bleu, Wagyu bolognese pappardelle, mini smashed burgers, bao buns and Rock Corn – generous, indulgent and perfect for sharing after skiing.
Run by a former Cheval Blanc sous-chef, this pleasant restaurant serves hearty, precise French classics made with excellent fresh ingredients. The wine selection is thoughtfully chosen, and the chef is often present to guide the experience. Settle into the elegant interior, or enjoy the sun-drenched terrace for lunch and après-ski.
Created 30 years ago by Ted Di Trapani, this Courchevel Italian favourite serves fresh homemade pasta, risottos, crisp pizzas and classics such as Tournedos Rossini and fillet with morels by the wood fire. Raised in a wine-growing family, Ted selects the cellar himself. Warm, welcoming and wonderfully authentic.
Fun, indulgent Italian food gets a chic Alpine twist, with plates made for sharing and trying everything. Overlooking the snow-covered Bellecôte run, its terrace is perfect for lunch, dinner or a longer sunny pause as the atmosphere builds. Do not miss the truffle pizza or pasta alla vodka on repeat.
With authenticity, quality and warmth at its heart, this is more than a restaurant: it is where food, culture and people meet. Founded in Ibiza in 2014 by Johnny, a French entrepreneur passionate about Thai food and wine, and Pom, a Thai chef, it serves delicious Thai cuisine all day.
No introduction is needed for this in-vogue address, frequented by epicures, film and fashion names, and loyal friends. The cuisine is refined and delicate, with black truffle woven through many of the chef’s creations. The wine list reads like a Bordeaux bible, filled with celebrated grands crus and exceptional vintages.
Offering signature sushi, contemporary Japanese dishes and creations found only in Courchevel, this restaurant and bar is a welcome change from fondue and raclette. Expect exceptionally fresh, beautifully balanced flavours, with every bite designed to impress. Make time for one of the sublime cocktails too; they are part of the experience.
Within Chabichou Hotel, this Courchevel institution first earned a Michelin star in 1979 and remains a landmark of Alpine gastronomy. Chef Stéphane Buron creates inventive, refined and generous cuisine across 5, 7 or 9-course menus. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 7:00–8:30pm. Thursday cookery classes are available on request.
Within K2 Palace Hotel, Sarkara is a two-Michelin-star gourmet dessert restaurant where Sébastien Vauxion creates a divine surprise. His avant-garde vegetal menu takes you on a sweet journey, with pairings such as celery-clementine and grapefruit-beetroot. Delicate, unusual and unforgettable. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 7:30–10:00pm for dinner.
Within Strato Hotel, Slalom 1850 reflects Chef Thomas Prod’homme’s contemporary, sensitive vision of mountain cuisine. Recently awarded a second Michelin star, it celebrates seasonal produce, memories and Mediterranean roots through dishes of elegance, aroma and contrast. Refined yet emotional, it is a beautiful Courchevel dining experience. Open Monday to Saturday.
Within Cheval Blanc Hotel, 1947 is Courchevel’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant and Chef Yannick Alléno’s intimate mountain stage. Named after Château Cheval Blanc’s most famous vintage, it seats just 25 guests, with an open kitchen in full view. Book early for modern French cuisine at its finest. Open Wednesday to Sunday.
Benvenuto to a journey into the heart of Italy. Expect elegant table settings, a dolce vita atmosphere and seasonal cuisine inspired by refined Italian recipes. Dishes are paired with a thoughtful selection of Italian wines from the Antinori winery, making this a polished, generous choice for lovers of Italian flavours.
Run by locals, this new venue celebrates generous French cuisine inspired by the mountains and seasonal produce. Elegant yet relaxed, it is made for gathering around a table. With a crackling fire, smiling service and comforting aromas, lunch or dinner becomes a simple, genuine pleasure in the heart of Courchevel.
At Hotel Portetta in Moriond, Angela Hartnett, one of the UK’s best-loved chefs, brings her Italian warmth to Courchevel. The menu combines much-loved classics, daily specials and thoughtful touches of Savoyard and French tradition. Open for lunch and dinner, it is an inviting, generous choice for relaxed slope-side dining too.
Le Tremplin has been a local institution for over 65 years, loved by skiers and non-skiers alike. Expect generous brasserie dishes, fresh Atlantic fish, seafood platters, sushi, quality meats and a strong wine cellar. Just next door, the adjoining crêperie is a family-friendly favourite for something easy, sweet or savoury.
Rustic, welcoming and typically Savoyard, Le Caveau is a delight for food lovers. Step inside to attentive service, a convivial atmosphere and a crackling fireplace. For lunch or dinner, enjoy regional specialities, hot-stone dishes, vegetarian options and homemade desserts, all served with warmth and mountain charm in Courchevel throughout winter.
Tucked away in narrow streets beneath a stone vault lined with aged wood, this cosy spot captures the spirit of Savoie. Once a humble stable, it now serves traditional mountain recipes, local farm cheeses and dishes cooked over glowing embers, with just the right touch of flair. Closed on Tuesday.
For a traditional Savoyard meal to share with family or friends, head to La Fromagerie. Expect tartiflettes, croziflettes, bubbling fondues and generous raclettes, served in a cosy, traditionally decorated dining room with a wonderfully welcoming log fire. It is warm, hearty and exactly what snowy evenings call for in Courchevel.
Set in a former shepherd’s building, this cosy, rustic restaurant is known for its Alpine atmosphere. It serves traditional Savoyard dishes, local cheeses and meats grilled over an open wood fire. With stone-and-wood interiors, a fireplace and a relaxed feel, it is ideal for hearty mountain dinners. Closed on Sundays.
Known for its fun après-ski atmosphere and prime snowfront location, this outdoor bar is a favourite for drinks and music after skiing. Expect DJ sets, retro tunes, mountain-style décor, piste views, well-priced beers and wines, plus simple Savoyard snacks; perfect for winding down, or gearing up, after the slopes.
This popular meeting spot draws a stylish crowd and quickly turns festive from 4pm. Expect violinists, sax players and drummers creating infectious energy, with music and dancing carrying the atmosphere late into the night. It is an upscale indoor venue where tables should be reserved and usually require a minimum spend.
When the resort falls asleep, the Cat Club wakes up.. Start in the lounge from 10pm with signature cocktails, then move into club mode from 1am for disco and tech-house DJ sets. Sleek, energetic and unapologetically late-night, it is where Courchevel drinks, dances and keeps the night going beautifully until dawn.
At the Porte de Courchevel on Rue des Tovets, Les Caves is one of Courchevel 1850’s legendary late-night addresses. Expect a glamorous nightclub atmosphere, big tables, music, dancing and plenty of champagne-fuelled energy. It is the place to go when dinner turns into a proper Courchevel night out after dark.
Non Skiers
The sky’s the limit
Scenic flight
Enjoy a bird's eye view
Take to the sky by small plane or helicopter and see Les 3 Vallées in all their glory. Departing from Courchevel Altiport, Europe’s highest at 2,007m, you fly with a mountain specialist pilot and panoramic commentary. Its famously short, sloping runway and James Bond cameo add extra theatre before take-off.
Hot air balloon
Memories that last a lifetime
If you like the idea of flight but prefer something serene, a sunrise hot air balloon ride is a magical start to the day. Drift quietly above the peaks with views towards Mont Blanc, the Vanoise glaciers and Alpine valleys. Peaceful, romantic and unforgettable, this is Courchevel from another angle.
Paragliding
Feel truly free
Whether you want a peaceful glide or something with more thrill, tandem paragliding high above the pistes gives the ultimate feeling of freedom. Take off from Saulire, soar over La Folie Douce and land in Méribel, or fly from Col de la Loze and glide beautifully down to Le Praz.
3 Valleys summits on foot
One step at a time
Who says you need skis to enjoy the high mountains? With a pedestrian pass, hop on the lifts and explore The 3 Vallées’ finest viewpoints on foot. Wander between snowy paths, sunny terraces and mountain restaurants, breathe in alpine air and enjoy the magic of the summits at your pace.
Beyond your usual transport
Snowmobile
The fast way
Once the slopes close and the mountain grows quiet, swap skis for a snowmobile and follow your guide across Courchevel’s snowy pistes on a one-hour tour. Fast, fun and a little wild, it is a brilliant after-dark adventure. Drivers need a licence; passengers are accepted from age eight years old.
Sledging
The thrilling way
Ready for old-school mountain fun? Courchevel has sledging for every thrill-seeker, from the free 2km evening run from 1850 to 1550, to Moriond Racing in 1650, with tunnels, turns and plenty of giggles. After the slopes close, guided evening sledging can be arranged, from snake gliss to yooners.
Snow groomer
The backstage way
Curious about the machines that create those perfect corduroy pistes? Take the controls of a snow groomer with a professional driver beside you, or ride along after the ski area closes in a 470 hp piste basher. Fascinating and behind-the-scenes, it is open from age six or eight by option.
Snowshoe
The peaceful way
With half & full day outings available for different levels, snowshoeing is a wonderful way to discover Courchevel’s quieter side. Explore snowy forests and peaceful trails, with Lac de la Rosière a favourite for reconnecting with nature and learning about local fauna and flora. Evening outings under the stars can also be arranged.
Fun for all ages
Aquamotion
A mix of fun and relaxation
Need a break from the slopes or a fun snowy afternoon? Between Courchevel 1550 and 1650, Aquamotion has pools, slides and wild rivers for children, plus indoor surfing and climbing for energetic guests. Grown-ups can unwind in Aquawellness, with saunas, steam rooms and spaces, including one evening open until 10pm.
Ice rink and bowling
Strike, skate, repeat
For an easy evening activity in Courchevel 1850, head to Le Forum, home to the resort’s Olympic-size ice rink. Swap ski boots for skates, catch an ice hockey game, or visit Bowling 3000 next door for lanes, children’s bumpers, arcade games, a bar and a restaurant.
Dog sledding
Glide into the wild
Wrap up warm and climb aboard for a ride straight from a winter storybook. Led by a professional musher, the huskies pull you through Courchevel’s snowy forests, with only paws on snow for company. Gentle, charming and full of mountain magic, it is lovely for children and grown-ups alike too.
Library
A little calm between adventures
Tucked away in Le Praz, Courchevel’s library is a lovely place to pause between mountain adventures. Enjoy a quiet read, children’s story corner, games or a peaceful warm-up away from the slopes. Perfect for families, bookworms or anyone needing calm; just check ahead, as opening hours can be limited.
Unforgettable mountain moments
Ice-diving
Dip into the extraordinary
For something truly out of the ordinary, head to Lac du Praz at 1,300m and slip beneath the frozen surface in a special suit. Fully kitted out and guided by professionals, you will discover a silent world beneath the ice. Ice bathing and ice floating are also available. Minimum age 16.
Luxury Spas
A little après-ski bliss
Courchevel is home to exceptional hotel spas, where you can slip from snow into saunas, hammams, pools and indulgent treatment rooms. Our favourites include Six Senses, Cheval Blanc and Le Chabichou, perfect for a massage, quiet swim or après-ski bliss. We can also arrange private in-house massage treatments.
Horse-drawn carriage
Clip-clop into a fairy tale
For a little Courchevel magic, hop into a horse-drawn carriage at Place du Tremplin and let 1850 unfold at a gentler pace. Wrapped up warm, clip-clop past chalet façades, boutiques and mountain views, while little ones enjoy the fairy-tale feeling. Short pony rides are also available for children.
Tourist Office events
Discover what’s on in resort
There is always something happening in Courchevel, so keep an eye on the Tourist Office’s weekly programme. From family activities and children’s shows to torchlit descents, concerts and festive entertainment, it is a great way to add extra mountain magic to your stay and discover what is happening in resort.
Shopping
Unlike many French ski resorts, Courchevel offers serious ‘retail therapy’. And while there are numerous shops offering ski clothing, equipment and snow boots, there are also designer boutiques, fantastic jewellery shops and art galleries to rival any big city high street.
When will you find time to ski?
SKI & SPORT SHOPS As you would expect from a world-class ski resort, Courchevel has no shortage of excellent ski and sports shops, with options across the villages and the biggest choice in 1850. Whether you need rental skis, a last-minute pair of gloves or a full slope-to-lunch outfit, you will be well looked after.Jean Blanc Sports remains one of Courchevel’s great institutions. Open since 1947 and ideally placed by La Croisette, it offers ski equipment, clothing and accessories, with a team who really know what they are talking about. Snowboarders should still make a beeline for Endless Winter, Courchevel’s long-running independent snowboard shop, with boards, boots and technical clothing from serious mountain brands.For the glitzier end of the ski market, Lacroix and Rossignol are the places for beautifully crafted skis, refined technical wear and alpine elegance. L’Atelier and Skiset are also now firmly part of the Courchevel ski scene, with boutiques in 1850, Moriond 1650 and Village 1550, offering ski rental, equipment and stylish mountain fashion. In short, whether you are after performance, comfort or something that looks fabulous on the terrace at lunch, Courchevel has you covered.
GLAM FASHION BOUTIQUES If non-ski shopping is on the agenda, Courchevel 1850 is still the place to head. The resort’s luxury shopping has become even more impressive in recent years, with the main shopping streets around Rue de l’Église, Rue du Rocher, Rue de la Croisette and Rue des Clarines now home to some of the biggest names in fashion. Expect serious window shopping - and perhaps a little credit card bravery - with boutiques from Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Dior, Hermès, Prada, Balenciaga, Moncler and more. Eric Bompard is a lovely stop for timeless cashmere, while Zadig & Voltaire brings that effortless French rock-chic feel. MAX&MOI is another Courchevel name to know for polished alpine glamour. For watches and jewellery, Courchevel 1850 has become a destination in itself. Doux Joaillier, Bulgari and the Rolex Boutique bring serious sparkle to the resort, while Espace Diamant remains the place to browse fine jewellery, watches, art and objets d’art. Our advice? Enjoy the window shopping, but if something makes your heart beat a little faster, you are on holiday after all.
LOCAL DELICACIES One thing you really should do in France is food shopping, and Courchevel has some wonderful places to pick up a little taste of the mountains. For Savoyard cheeses, charcuterie, wines, honey and local specialities, the Coopérative Laitière in Le Praz and Courchevel Moriond 1650 is a must as well as Le Farto in 1650 and 1850. It is perfect for Beaufort, tomme, raclette and all the delicious things that make a chalet supper feel properly Alpine. In Le Praz, you will also find L’Épicerie du Praz, located opposite Les Peupliers hotel. It has a lovely village feel, with a carefully chosen selection of local and seasonal products, including very good sandwiches and a delicious custard tart, or flan, as the French call it. For chocolates, La Piste Noire in Courchevel 1850 remains the sweet-tooth favourite, whether you are stopping for a delicious hot chocolate or choosing handmade organic chocolates, beautifully boxed for presents, or, frankly, for yourself. Your secret is safe with us.
GENERAL GROCERIES For self-catering, each village has useful food shops for the essentials. Carrefour is the main supermarket option in both Courchevel 1850 and Courchevel 1650. In 1850, Sherpa is a handy alternative, particularly if you want somewhere more central for groceries, regional products and last-minute essentials. Courchevel 1550 has a Proxi supermarket with general groceries, fresh bread, charcuterie, cheese, rotisserie chicken, wine and champagne. As always in resort, opening times can vary by season, so it is worth checking before you set off with an ambitious shopping list. For your information, deliveries to your accommodation can also be arranged before you arrive.
Escapes
Just below Courchevel in the valley is the small town of Brides les Bains, which as the name suggests is a thermal spa town, which has been attracting visitors since 19th century. The mineral rich water, drawn from 75m down, has long been known for its therapeutic qualities and you can spend a relaxing day taking the waters at the Grand Spa Thermal with its steam rooms, ice baths and therapeutic treatments.
The city of Chambery, which is the capital of the Savoie, is a great place for a day out. It is 100 km from Courchevel and it will take about 1½ hourto drive there (sadly not great public transport links). This was the main seat of the old kingdom of Savoy and was founded in the 13thcentury by Amadeus V. The historic town centre has a lovely mix of historic sites and great shopping as well as restaurants and cafes for some stops along the way. Two sights not to be missed are the Chateau de Chambery and the Elephant Fountain. The castle, which dates from 1285, was the seat of the House of Savoy until Duke Emmanuel Philibert moved his capital to Turin in 16th century. The Fontaine des Éléphants, which was built in 1838 to honour military campaigns in India, consists of four life size elephants and a statue of a local hero.
Annecy is the other must-visit place in the area – this beautiful lakeside town is 94 km from Courchevel and is a scenic 1½ hour drive. Often called the ‘Venice of the Alps’, the old town is built around a series of canals that feed into the lake, which is the 3rdlargest in France and said to be the cleanest in Europe. This is the perfect place to wander around the old cobbled streets, admiring the medieval architecture and window-shopping. Full of character as well as offering great retail therapy and a fantastic selection of cafés and restaurants, Annecy is the perfect destination for a day-out.
Have you ever considered trying your hand at bobsleighing? Available in the neighbouring resort of La Plagne you will find one of the best bobsleigh tracks in the world. It was the official Olympic track used for the Albertville Olympic Games in 1992. It is 1,500m long, allowing you to experience an average speed in excess of 100 km/h. In competition bobsleighs feel forces in excess of 3.5 G's in the bends.
Each bobsleigh has a qualified ‘pilot’ to steer you down the course and each ‘run’ can take three passengers. This is a really unique experience as this is the only bobsleigh track in France; during the daytime it is used by international athletes who train on the track, and it is open to the public Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 5.45 pm, from December to the end of March. La Plagne is not connected in anyway to Courchevel other than by road or by air. The whole journey from Courchevel to La Plagne takes about 60-80 minutes depending on traffic and weather, or alternatively you could take a helicopter from the Courchevel altiport to La Plagne, where you can be met by a driver to take you on to the bobsleigh track.
by air
We recommend flying with our partner airline Swiss, who will carry your ski gear for no extra charge.
SkiBoutique works with a number of taxi firms to provide shared, private and luxury road transfers from the airport of your choice to Courchevel. If you prefer to arrive by helicopter then of course we can arrange that too.
By Train
The local train station is in Moutiers, which is 19km / approximately 30 minutes drive away from Courchevel. There are two direct Eurostar services running in the winter (from mid December to April) leaving from London St Pancreas or Ashford International. Trains leave on Friday night (arriving on Saturday morning) and Saturday morning (arriving on Saturday evening). There is also the option of taking the Eurostar to Paris, and changing to the French TGV service to Moutiers, but this would involve a change of station in Paris and on some TGV services, a second change at Lyon or Chambery.
By Car
The journey from the UK to Courchevel is quite straightforward and is motorway for the majority of the drive. The distance from Calais is 930 km and the toll cost is around 68 euros. You must by law carry snow equipment such as snow chains. Courchevel 1850 co-ordinates for your sat.nav system are:
Latitude: 45°24′55”N Longitude: 6°38′11”E
*Please be aware that Sat Navs are not always accurate and particularly in winter they will not show Alpine road closures so please check the route chosen
