Courchevel is part of the Trois Vallées the world’s largest ski area with over 370 miles of slopes and 58 lifts. It is synonymous with luxury and is a favorite winter retreat of both royals and celebrities. There are also fabulous aprés-ski options including Michelin-starred restaurants, wonderful shopping, and gorgeous hotels packed with amenities for young and old. Read on to discover the first of our French winter ski guides featuring Courchevel.
French Winter Ski Guide: Courchevel
How to Get to Courchevel
There are several different ways to get to Courchevel. Because of ease and convenience, one of the most popular options is flying into Geneva and then taking a private transfer to Courchevel. The transfer time by helicopter is 30 minutes and by car two and a half hours.
It’s also possible to take a high-speed train from Paris to either Chambery or Moutiers. From Chambery the drive to Courchevel is just over an hour. From Moutiers the drive is about 20 minutes.
Lastly, you can drive to Courchevel. While this option might be tempting for those who like to try different ski areas, we don’t recommend it in case of inclement weather or heavy traffic.
What to Do in Courchevel
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the most popular activity in Courchevel is skiing. With eight black runs, 34 red runs, 35 blue runs, 19 green runs and fun and relaxed ‘zen’ areas, there is truly something for every level in Courchevel.
The best way to discover the slopes in Courchevel is with an official ski guide. Guides can take you to the runs with the best snow conditions and that best match your level. Another bonus of using a guide is you’ll have lift queue priority, so you’ll be able to spend more time skiing and less time waiting.
Helicopter Tour of the Alps
To see the snow-covered alpine peaks like never before, consider taking a helicopter tour. During this exclusive ride you’ll marvel at seeing the Haute-Tarentaise, Mont Blanc or the Tignes-Val d’Isère area from above. Truly an unforgettable experience!
When it comes time for aprés-ski the choices are plenty in Courchevel. There are fabulous restaurants, sophisticated bars and nightlife, renowned boutiques for shopping, and activities ranging from snowmobiling to hiking. It’s impossible to mention aprés-ski without mentioning La Folie Douce, a popular spot between Courchevel and Méribel for an afternoon of celebrating. Even non-skiers will love Courchevel!
Where to Eat in Courchevel
There is no shortage of delicious food in Courchevel with eight Michelin-starred restaurants.
After a long day of skiing, the best way to warm up and recharge is with local Savoyard cuisine, where cheese and potatoes take the center stage. Be sure to try raclette, a melted cheese scraped off from the wheel and typically served with potatoes and meats, tartiflette, a gratin-like dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, onions, and lardons, and fondue, a melted mix of Comté, Beaufort, and other local cheeses that you dip bread into using a fondue skewer. Two restaurants where you can find typical Savoyard cuisine in Courchevel are L’Arbé and Restaurant Le Petit Savoyard.
To satisfy everyone in your group, La Table des Airelles is a wonderful option. You’ll find a fabulous lunch buffet filled with all types of food: seafood, meats, cheeses, regional specialities, Italian food and an almost limitless assortment of desserts to name but a few of the choices.
For a special occasion in Courchevel, visit Le 1947. Located in the Cheval Blanc hotel, Le 1947 is the only three-star Michelin restaurant in Courchevel. Diners will enjoy Chef Yannick Alléno’s creative cuisine in a light and bright setting.
Where to Stay in Courchevel
Our favorite hotel in Courchevel is Les Airelles. The location of this ski in ski out property is perfect for both serious skiers and those who want to enjoy the Courchevel 1850 district. You’ll feel warm and cozy in this extraordinary property that truly resembles a winter palace. At Les Airelles you’ll have access to five restaurants – three on site and two on the slopes, a La Mer spa, a kids club, and unparalleled service including ski butlers.
If you prefer a private residence to a hotel, we recommend the Chalet Ormello. Just steps away from Les Airelles, this nine bedroom chalet can sleep up to 15 people. Guests will have access to a private spa, swimming pool, fitness room, game room, and home theater. You will also have team of 10 people including a chalet manager, chef, butler, housekeeper and valet services at their fingertips. Truly an amazing way to experience Courchevel!
Les Airelles for Children
Children will be delighted and enchanted by Les Airelles’ kids club, The Children’s Kingdom. The youngest of guests will be entertained with a fort, arcade, private cinema, air hockey table, ice rink, video games, and daily afternoon tea time. During the holiday season there are extra activities including dog-sledding, magic shows, pastry classes, hockey games, and formal dress parties. Les Airelles makes it easy for the whole family to enjoy the best of Courchevel!
We hope our first French winter ski guide to Courchevel will help inspire a trip. With the winter ski season rapidly approaching, don’t hesitate to contact French Side Travel to start creating your custom itinerary. We offer a whole host of itineraries based in the French Alps including a Ski Trip in Luxurious Courchevel and the Three Valleys, World-Class Skiing and Partying in Chamonix, and A Week of Chamonix Skiing with the Family