Courchevel: The complete guide to the resort for a moutain getaway
Published on June 10, 2026 | Reading time: 16 min
By Laurine Baille, Marketing Project Manager at HOMANIE
Courchevel is among the most renowned Alpine resorts in the world. As part of the vast Three Valleys ski area, it appeals both to winter sports enthusiasts and to travelers seeking elegance, gastronomy, and exceptional scenery.
Spread across several villages at different altitudes, the resort offers a variety of atmospheres capable of satisfying families, sports enthusiasts, and lovers of high-end stays alike. With slopes suitable for all winter activities and all skill levels, prestigious events, and Michelin-starred restaurants, Courchevel stands out as an essential destination for discovering the art of mountain living.
Summary
Courchevel: An iconic resort in the French Alps
A true benchmark of the French Alps, Courchevel is a prestigious ski resort located at the heart of the Three Valleys, the largest interconnected ski area in the world. Renowned for the quality of its infrastructure, the excellence of its hospitality, and its exceptional natural setting, it attracts visitors from around the globe each year.
An iconic destination for luxury ski holidays, Courchevel is celebrated for its diverse offering, combining luxury hotels, exceptional chalets, gourmet restaurants, and elegant boutiques. Its refined atmosphere is paired with a genuine mountain culture, allowing guests to enjoy a stay that seamlessly blends sport, relaxation, and the Alpine art of living.
The resort also benefits from a privileged geographical location. Spread across several villages ranging from 1,100 to 1,850 metres in altitude, Courchevel provides access to slopes reaching over 3,200 metres within the Three Valleys. This high elevation, combined with an extensive snowmaking network and favourable exposure, ensures outstanding skiing conditions throughout the winter season. Thanks to its particularly reliable snowfall, Courchevel is considered one of the most sought-after ski destinations in Europe.
The history of Courchevel and the resort
The birth of a ski resort in the Alps
Courchevel’s story began in the 1940s, during a period of reconstruction and modernization in the French mountains. Unlike many Alpine resorts that developed around pre-existing villages, Courchevel was one of the first purpose-built ski resorts, designed according to a master plan specifically created for winter sports.
The first developments took shape in Courchevel 1850 from 1946 onwards, driven by the ambition of making winter sports more accessible while creating a harmonious resort integrated into its natural surroundings. Its innovative architecture, ski-in/ski-out layout, and high-quality facilities quickly contributed to its growing reputation.
The development of Courchevel and the Three Valleys
Over the decades, Courchevel experienced remarkable growth and established itself as one of the most prestigious destinations in the Alps. The gradual expansion of its infrastructure, the modernization of its ski lifts, and the continuous enhancement of its tourism offering attracted an increasingly international clientele.
At the same time, the creation and subsequent connection of neighboring resorts led to the development of the Three Valleys ski area, which today links Courchevel with Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, and several other mountain villages. With more than 600 kilometres of interconnected slopes, the Three Valleys has become one of the largest ski areas in the world, further strengthening Courchevel’s international reputation and its status as a benchmark destination for mountain tourism.
Where is Courchevel located?
Courchevel in Savoie, in the French alps
Courchevel is located in the Tarentaise Valley, in the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is part of the Vanoise mountain range and comprises six villages: Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond, Courchevel Village, Courchevel La Praz, Courchevel La Tania, and Saint-Bon.
Map of Courchevel and the Three Valleys ski area
The different villages of Courchevel
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Courchevel 1850 is the resort’s most famous and highest-altitude village. Renowned worldwide for its elegant atmosphere, it is home to much of Courchevel’s luxury offering, including prestigious hotels, exceptional chalets, gourmet restaurants, and high-end boutiques.
Located directly at the foot of the slopes and at the heart of the Three Valleys ski area, Courchevel 1850 also provides privileged access to one of the largest ski domains in the world, while benefiting from particularly reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season.
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Courchevel Moriond, also known as Courchevel 1650, is a village appreciated for its more relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Located at a mid-mountain altitude, it enjoys generous sunshine and direct access to the slopes of the Three Valleys ski area.
Less exclusive than Courchevel 1850, Moriond is particularly popular with families and skiers seeking a balance of comfort, accessibility, and authenticity. The village offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and activities, all within a warm and lively setting.
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Courchevel Village, also known as Courchevel 1550, is an ideal gateway to discovering both the resort and the Three Valleys ski area. Located at an intermediate altitude, it offers direct access to Courchevel 1850 via fast and efficient ski lifts.
The village is particularly popular with families and visitors seeking a quieter and more affordable stay while remaining connected to the entire ski area. With its tourist residences, local shops, and welcoming atmosphere, Courchevel 1550 offers an appealing balance between authenticity and convenience.
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Courchevel Le Praz, also known as Courchevel 1300, is an authentic village that has preserved its traditional Savoyard charm. Located at a lower altitude than the resort’s other villages, it offers a more traditional atmosphere, with wooden chalets, peaceful streets, and the character of a true mountain village.
Despite its more intimate setting, Le Praz enjoys direct and rapid access to the Three Valleys ski area thanks to its modern gondola lift connecting the village to Courchevel 1850. It is particularly popular with visitors seeking peace, authenticity, and local character while remaining connected to one of the largest ski areas in the world.
How to get to Courchevel?
What airport do you fly to for Courchevel?
The closest airport to Courchevel is Chambéry Airport, located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away by road. It is particularly convenient during the winter season thanks to its numerous seasonal flight connections.
A major international gateway is Geneva Airport, which is one of the main access points to Courchevel and is situated around 2 to 2.5 hours from the resort by car. Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport is another key option, offering a wide range of international flights and access to the resort in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Grenoble Alpes–Isère Airport also serves as an alternative, particularly for seasonal flights, and is located around 2 hours from Courchevel.
For a truly spectacular arrival, Courchevel has its own altiport, Courchevel Altiport, one of the most famous mountain airports in the world. Reserved for small aircraft and helicopters, it provides direct access to the resort, although its use is subject to strict operating conditions due to its steeply sloped runway.
Getting to Courchevel by train or car
Courchevel can be reached by train via Moûtiers–Salins–Brides-les-Bains Railway Station, located approximately 30 to 45 minutes from the resort. The station is served by direct high-speed TGV trains from major French cities. From Moûtiers, shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfer services provide easy access to the various villages of Courchevel.
By car, the resort is accessible via the A43 motorway to Albertville, followed by the N90 towards Moûtiers and the Tarentaise Valley. From there, a well-maintained mountain road leads directly to Courchevel and its different villages at varying altitudes.
What is the best time to visit Courchevel?
Courchevel in Winter
From December to April, Courchevel fully lives up to its reputation with its vast ski area, reliable snow conditions, and lively atmosphere. This is the peak season for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports, particularly during school holidays and major sporting events.
Courchevel in Spring
Spring offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still allowing visitors to enjoy the slopes. Longer days and increased sunshine make this season especially pleasant for combining skiing with leisurely afternoons on sunny terraces overlooking the Alpine peaks.
Courchevel in Summer
In summer, Courchevel reveals a completely different side. Lush mountain landscapes, scenic hiking trails, and a wide range of outdoor activities attract nature lovers and mountain enthusiasts alike. It is the perfect season for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, or simply exploring the Vanoise National Park.
Courchevel in Autumn
Autumn is a quieter and more confidential season, appealing primarily to travelers seeking peace, open spaces, and a slower pace before the return of winter. Each season has its own charm, although winter remains the iconic time to fully experience the unique character of Courchevel.
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The Three Valleys ski area brings together several internationally renowned resorts, including Courchevel, Méribel, Les Menuires, Val Thorens, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Brides-les-Bains, Orelle, and La Tania.
Thanks to a modern network of ski lifts and perfectly interconnected slopes, skiers can explore the entire ski area without ever taking off their skis. The Three Valleys offers more than 600 kilometres of runs suited to all ability levels, from wide beginner-friendly green slopes to challenging routes favored by experienced skiers.
With elevations reaching over 3,200 metres, the ski area generally benefits from excellent snow conditions throughout the winter season, making it one of the most sought-after skiing destinations in the world.
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Beginners will find plenty of wide, well-groomed green and blue runs in Courchevel and the surrounding resorts, along with dedicated learning areas and several renowned ski schools that provide ideal conditions for developing confidence on the slopes.
Intermediate skiers can enjoy a vast selection of blue and red runs, allowing them to explore the different sectors of the resort while taking in the spectacular Alpine scenery. Thanks to the modern lift network, it is easy to vary routes and spend an entire day skiing without repeating the same itinerary.
Advanced and expert skiers will also find plenty of challenges in Courchevel. The resort features technical red runs, several demanding black pistes, and renowned off-piste opportunities that can be enjoyed, snow conditions permitting, with appropriate guidance and supervision.
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Courchevel is particularly renowned for its off-piste skiing opportunities, with numerous routes allowing skiers to explore bowls, forests, and untouched terrain within an exceptional Alpine environment. Freestyle enthusiasts can enjoy dedicated areas designed for jumps and tricks, while ski touring enthusiasts have access to a variety of routes that offer a more immersive and contemplative way to experience the mountains.
The resort also offers a wide range of winter activities, including snowboarding, telemark skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing, ensuring there is something to suit every style of mountain adventure.
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Visitors can choose between a ski pass granting access only to the Courchevel ski area, which offers approximately 150 kilometres of slopes, or a Three Valleys pass, providing access to more than 600 kilometres of interconnected runs across several prestigious resorts.
Passes are available for a wide range of durations, from a few hours to several weeks, with specific options designed for families, children, seniors, and beginners. The Minipass, for example, offers reduced-rate access to dedicated beginner areas, making it an attractive option for first-time skiers. Special promotions, such as six-day passes offered for the price of five, are also regularly available.
Ski passes can be purchased online before arrival, reloaded through the official Three Valleys mobile application, or collected directly from the resort’s ticket offices. For visitors wishing to make the most of the region, the Three Valleys pass is generally considered the best option, providing unrestricted access between Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens, Les Menuires, and the other resorts within the ski area.
Après-ski and resort life
après-ski bars and sunny terraces
After a day on the slopes or to round off a mountain hike Courchevel offers a lively yet refined atmosphere. Mountain bars and sunny terraces invite visitors to extend their Alpine experience over a drink while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
Shopping in the resort centre
Courchevel is renowned for its high-quality shopping offer, particularly in Courchevel 1850. Among the many shops selling ski and mountain equipment are a number of luxury boutiques. Visitors can also purchase gourmet souvenirs such as crozets and honey made from alpine flowers.
Wellness and relaxation activities
To relax after a day of sporting activities, swimming pools and massage facilities can be found throughout the resort's different villages. Aquamotion Courchevel is the largest aquatic and wellness centre in the valley, featuring swimming pools, a relaxation area, a spa, hammams, and sports facilities.
For a more exclusive experience, the spas at Six Senses Residences & Spa Courchevel, Airelles Courchevel, and Le Chabichou Hôtel & Spa are particularly renowned for the quality of their treatments and their high-end facilities.
What to do in Courchevel during your stay?
Discover Courchevel’s villages
Beyond its famous ski area, Courchevel invites visitors to explore its different villages, each with its own distinct identity. From the elegance of Courchevel 1850 to the authentic charm of Courchevel Le Praz, via the family-friendly atmosphere of Courchevel Village and the sunny character of Courchevel Moriond, each area offers a different experience of mountain life in Savoie.
Winter activities in the mountains
In winter, Courchevel offers much more than alpine skiing. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, ski touring, sledding, and dog sledding excursions. The resort also features dedicated snowboarding and freestyle areas, as well as an ice rink where visitors can even compete in ice karting races.
Summer activities: Hiking and moutain biking
When the snow gives way to alpine meadows, Courchevel becomes a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Numerous hiking trails allow visitors to explore Alpine landscapes while discovering the region’s mountain flora and fauna. Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of routes suited to both beginners and experienced riders.
As soon as summer temperatures arrive, Lac du Praz and the outdoor swimming pool in La Tania become popular places to relax and enjoy the mountain setting.
Explore the Vanoise National Park
Located close to Courchevel, Vanoise National Park is one of the oldest national parks in France. This protected natural area is home to remarkable biodiversity, including Alpine ibex and chamois. Its hiking trails provide an opportunity to discover spectacular mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and glaciers.
The best restaurants in Courchevel
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Courchevel is one of the most prestigious gastronomic destinations in the French Alps. The resort is home to several restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide, attracting an international clientele in search of exceptional culinary experiences.
Among the most renowned establishments are Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc, awarded three Michelin stars, as well as Le Sylvestre and Sarkara, both distinguished with two Michelin stars.
Fine dining enthusiasts can also discover Le Farçon, L'Altitude, and the gourmet restaurant at Le Chabichou, all renowned for the quality of their cuisine and their celebration of Alpine ingredients.
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Among the resort’s most popular addresses is La Fromagerie, a welcoming institution located at the entrance of Courchevel 1850, renowned for its fondue, raclette, and tartiflette served in a warm atmosphere by the fireplace.
Le Chalet de Pierres, located in the heart of the ski area, is also highly appreciated for its traditional mountain dishes, which can be enjoyed either on its large sunny terrace or within its cosy chalet interior.
Other notable restaurants include Le Bistrot Manali and Le Chalet de la Loze, both offering generous mountain cuisine that showcases Savoyard cheeses and local regional products.
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Among the resort’s most iconic slope-side restaurants is Le Chalet de Pierres, renowned for its large sunny terrace and lively daytime atmosphere. La Soucoupe is another must-visit address, offering a gourmet break in the heart of the ski area.
Le Cap Horn is also highly regarded for its elegant setting and cuisine that blends French and Asian influences, while L'Altiport offers a more unusual experience, with panoramic mountain views and a unique vantage point overlooking helicopter arrivals and departures.
Where to stay in Courchevel?
Discover Homanie’s luxury chalets available for rent in Courchevel, featuring swimming pools, fitness rooms, and spacious terraces with mountain views, perfect for family holidays or stays with friends.
Courchevel 1850 Chenus
Nestled in the heart of Courchevel 1850, this exceptional chalet accommodates up to 13 guests in an elegant and welcoming setting. A true luxury Alpine retreat, it offers direct access to the slopes and immediate connection to the legendary Three Valleys ski area. Its generous volumes and thoughtfully designed living spaces provide the perfect balance between conviviality and privacy.
Designed by a renowned London-based interior designer, the chalet combines noble materials, contemporary lines, and a refined, cosy atmosphere.
After a day on the slopes, guests can unwind in the chalet’s private spa, featuring an indoor swimming pool, hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, massage room, and fitness room. A unique setting where mountain living, wellness, and luxury come together.
To ensure an unforgettable stay for families and friends, a personalised welcome awaits. The chalet is fully prepared before arrival, and daily housekeeping is included (15 hours per day). Guests also benefit from the services of a private butler and chef (11 hours per day for breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner, 6 days a week, excluding grocery costs), a private driver with a Mercedes V-Class (11 hours per day), a professional massage therapist (two one-hour treatments), and a welcome basket.
Courchevel 1850 Ecureuil
Also located in the heart of Courchevel 1850, this chalet offers approximately 850 m² of refined living space and an exceptional level of comfort. It features seven en-suite bedrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 14 guests. The living areas are centered around a lounge with a fireplace and billiard table, a dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cigar lounge, all extended by a large terrace overlooking the valley.
The wellness area includes an indoor swimming pool, sauna, hammam, massage room, solarium, and fitness room. A fully equipped ski room with direct slope access, as well as an elevator serving all floors, complete the property.
Included services: personalized welcome, pre-arrival stay preparation, daily housekeeping (10 hours per day) and turndown service, a private butler and chef (10 hours per day for breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner, excluding grocery costs), a private driver with a Mercedes V-Class (10 hours per day), a welcome basket, and Wi-Fi.
Practical tips for planning your stay in Courchevel
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A long weekend of three to four days is enough to discover the different villages of the resort, enjoy skiing on part of the Courchevel ski area, and experience its lively atmosphere, restaurants, and wellness facilities.
For ski enthusiasts, a one-week stay is often the ideal choice. It provides plenty of time to explore the entire Courchevel ski area as well as a large part of the Three Valleys.
In summer, three to five days are generally sufficient to combine hiking, outdoor activities, and excursions in the surrounding mountains.
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Getting around Courchevel is particularly easy thanks to a well-developed transport network connecting the resort’s different villages. Free shuttle buses run regularly between Courchevel La Praz, Courchevel Village, Courchevel Moriond, and Courchevel 1850.
During the winter season, ski lifts also provide a convenient way to travel between certain areas of the resort.
For greater flexibility, taxis and private transfer services are available throughout the year. However, many visitors choose to leave their car parked for the duration of their stay, as most services and activities are easily accessible on foot or via the resort’s transport system.
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For a winter stay in this prestigious resort, you should generally budget between €150 and €300 per person per day for a comfortable trip including accommodation, meals, a ski pass, and a few activities. However, luxury accommodations and premium services can easily increase the overall cost well beyond this range.
Accommodation is often the largest expense. Apartments and tourist residences in Courchevel Village or Courchevel La Praz generally offer more affordable rates than the prestigious hotels and luxury chalets of Courchevel 1850. Additional costs include ski passes, equipment rental if required, and dining expenses, which can vary significantly depending on the establishments chosen.
In summer, prices are generally more moderate, making it possible to discover the resort at a lower cost. Outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the Alpine landscapes remain accessible, while accommodation rates are often more attractive than during the winter high season. Booking well in advance is recommended in all seasons to secure the best conditions and rates for your stay in Courchevel.
Why choose Courchevel for a mountain getaway?
Courchevel stands out for its privileged access to the Three Valleys ski area, the quality of its facilities, and the wide range of activities available throughout the year. Renowned for its reliable snowfall, stunning Alpine scenery, and refined atmosphere, the resort attracts both ski enthusiasts and travelers seeking relaxation, wellness, and fine dining.
In both winter and summer, Courchevel offers a complete mountain experience, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in the French Alps.
Discover other exceptional destinations
Courchevel: Answers to all your questionS
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The ski season in Courchevel generally begins in early December and runs until mid-April, depending on snow conditions.
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Awarded the Famille Plus label since 2010, Courchevel offers a wide range of facilities designed for families and children, including snow gardens, renowned ski schools, fun zones on the slopes, and numerous non-ski activities.
Courchevel Village and Courchevel Moriond are particularly popular with families thanks to their welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly accommodation options.
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Courchevel is a wonderful mountain destination to visit in summer. As the snow gives way to lush alpine meadows, the resort becomes an ideal playground for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking, mountain biking, trail running, climbing, golf, and family walks offer countless opportunities to enjoy the Alpine landscapes from a different perspective. The nearby Vanoise National Park also provides excellent opportunities for excursions focused on discovering the region’s rich mountain wildlife and flora.
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Courchevel’s ski area covers approximately 150 kilometres of slopes spread across the resort’s different villages. It offers a wide variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly slopes to more challenging descents for experienced skiers.
Thanks to a modern lift network, the various sectors are easily accessible and provide spectacular views of the surrounding Alpine peaks. Courchevel is also part of the Les Trois Vallées ski area, which connects several major resorts in the Tarentaise Valley and offers more than 600 kilometres of interconnected slopes.
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Courchevel is renowned as one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world. Combining exceptional skiing in Les Trois Vallées with luxury chalets, fine dining, designer shopping, and outstanding service, it offers a unique blend of alpine adventure and refined mountain living that attracts discerning travelers from around the globe.
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Courchevel is pronounced approximately "koor-shuh-VEL", with the emphasis on the final syllable, following the French pronunciation.
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Courchevel commands premium prices because it delivers an exceptional level of comfort, service, and attention to detail. From beautifully appointed chalets and seamless ski access to highly personalized hospitality, guests benefit from a level of quality that is difficult to match elsewhere in the Alps. The resort's reputation for excellence and consistently high standards make it one of the most sought-after mountain destinations in Europe.
