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Home to the 1992 Winter Olympics and a potential host in 2030, Courchevel is one of the Northern Alps' most popular ski resorts. Part of the world's largest connected ski area, Courchevel Village (formerly 1550) offers a more laid-back, authentic experience with easy access to other resorts in the Three Valleys. Ideal for families, it boasts fewer crowds and over 100 trails to explore. Many of Villanovo's luxury chalets here offer stunning views, ensuring an unbeatable ski holiday.
With its modern lifts and 150km of terrain, Courchevel charms every level of skier and snowboarder from beginners to off-piste thrill-seekers. Courchevel 1550 is an excellent base for a day on the slopes. Offering a convenient parking lot, the Grangettes Gondola whisks you to the main ski areas and lift station in Courchevel 1850 in less than 5 minutes. Here, you'll find easy access to the sprawling 3 Valleys ski area. For those just starting out, stick to the lower slopes around Courchevel Village which have a secure, fenced-off beginner's area. Looking for a ski lesson with an English-speaking instructor? The Courchevel Village ski school offers both group and private lessons. Childcare facilities are also available for parents who want to hit the more difficult slopes.
Head to the main street to find a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops in the Courchevel Village. Taste the traditional dishes of the Northern Alps at Les Flocons, who serves Savoyard cuisine along the pistes. Open for lunch or dinner, their sun-soaked terrace is ideal on bluebird days. Families will love the delicious wood-fired pizzas and steaks at the cosy restaurant La Cortona. At the bottom of the pistes in Courchevel 1550, L'Oeil de Boeuf 'Chez Pierre' features an open-fire for flame-roasted dishes.
Après-ski seekers are sure to be fans of local favourite Le Caterail for their live music, vodka specialties, and TVs for watching sports. People also like Schuss in nearby Courchevel 1650 for their fabulous French wine and cheese. For couples, holidaymakers, and groups of friends who want a Michelin-star meal or chic nightlife in luxe Courchevel 1850, the Grangettes gondola is open everyday until midnight.
There is no shortage of winter activities for enjoying the snow without skis. Snowshoe in powder or hike on groomed footpaths beneath towering spruce trees. Let beautiful huskies glide you across the snow on a dog sledge ride. At night, ride a snow groomer to discover the mountains' charm under the stars. Take a 2.5km toboggan run from Courchevel 1850 to Courchevel Village centre. Try a new winter sport, snakegliss, in which a chain of sleds weave down the mountain. Grab a seat in the back for a faster ride.
The Patinoire du Forum houses Courchevel's ice-skating rink. This popular spot also has a climbing wall and a bowling alley for fun for the whole family. A short walk or shuttle bus away from the village centre, Aquamotion has water slides and indoor pools for kids and hot tubs and massages to soothe tired muscles after a day on the slopes.
With plenty of kid-friendly facilities and things to do, Courchevel is well-suited for your family holidays. The mountain offers discounted rates for families and kids as well as free lift tickets for children under 5 to help keep prices down. Some of the beginner areas have reduced-rate tickets and free lifts. They are dedicated to new skiers and snowboarders for the utmost safety. The English-language instructors are eager to help you feel comfortable on the slopes. Childcare is available on the mountain or have your Villanovo concierge book a private nanny service. As far as events go, find festive markets and holiday carols during Christmas and New Year's and family-friendly concerts during the school holidays.
How to get to Courchevel? Many international flights go to Geneva, followed by a 2hr30 shared or private transfer to the ski resort. Chambery is 1hr30 away while it takes to 2hr15 to travel from Lyon and Grenoble Airport. To come by train to Courchevel, take a TGV to Moûtiers, then an hour-long bus to the mountain. Feel free to come by car, especially if you have lots of gear. Though once there, you won't need a car in Courchevel 1550 thanks to free shuttle busses.
When is the best time to go skiing in the Northern Alps? November is calm, though there isn't guaranteed snow. December and the beginning of January are buzzing with holidaymakers as is February during the half-term holiday. March is the ideal month to visit Courchevel for it has the best snow and less crowds. Be sure to pack thermals since temperatures hover at 1°C all winter. Dress in layers when going out since the heat is often on full blast indoors. Waterproof boots are welcome everywhere.
Villanovo has a wide choice of luxury chalets with indoor swimming pools or that are by the slopes, plus your choice of self-catering or catered chalets in Courchevel.
Our exclusive chalets are located in prime locations in Courchevel's six villages like Courchevel 1300, Courchevel 1550, Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1850 & Courchevel La Tania.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your holiday. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, whether you need restaurant reservations, excursion bookings, a private chef, and more. Last but not least? Villanovo has top-notch recommendations for restaurants, shops and other experiences to make the most of your holiday in Courchevel.
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