If you’ve ever dreamed of a snowy escape wrapped in elegance, excitement, and breathtaking mountain views, then Courchevel is the place we’ve been waiting for.
Tucked in the French Alps, this iconic ski resort has everything we need for a memorable winter adventure — and yes, it even has an airport that’s known as one of the world’s most extreme! Let’s break it all down so we can plan our dream trip the smart way.
Where Exactly Is Courchevel?
Courchevel is located in the Savoie department of southeastern France, right in the Tarentaise Valley, and forms part of the Three Valleys (Les Trois Vallées) — the largest linked ski area on Earth. The resort is split into five villages by altitude:
· Courchevel 1850 – luxurious and glitzy
· Courchevel Moriond (1650) – sunny and family-friendly
· Courchevel Village (1550) – quiet with local charm
· Courchevel Le Praz (1300) – traditional alpine village
· Courchevel La Tania – cozy and surrounded by forest
Each area offers something different, and they’re connected by a system of lifts and free shuttles, so we can easily explore them all.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
Courchevel’s ski season runs from early December to late April. For the best snow and manageable crowds, we should aim for mid-January to early March. If we’re looking for great weather and a slightly quieter vibe, late March offers longer days and sunnier slopes, though snow conditions can vary.
Opening Hours & Lift Pass Prices
1. Opening Hours:
· Most ski lifts operate between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM, depending on weather and altitude.
· Night skiing is available once a week at certain areas (usually Wednesdays in Courchevel 1850).
2. Lift Pass Prices (Winter 2025):
· 1-day Courchevel area pass: approx. $78 USD (adults), $60 USD (children)
· 6-day Courchevel pass: around $390 USD
· Les Trois Vallées full-area pass (1 day): about $92 USD, 6-day: $460 USD
How to Get There
By Air:
- Chambéry Airport: 1.5 hours
- Geneva Airport or Lyon Airport: about 2.5 hours
- Courchevel also has its own altiport, but only specially trained pilots can land due to the short 525-meter runway and steep incline.
By Train:
- Take the TGV to Moûtiers-Salins-Brides-les-Bains (closest station).
- From there, it’s about 30 minutes by bus, taxi, or hotel shuttle to Courchevel.
By Car:
- We can rent a car and drive from Geneva or Lyon in 2.5 hours, but snow chains or winter tires are a must in snow season.
What Can We Do Besides Skiing?
Even if we’re not planning to ski all day, Courchevel offers a wide range of fun and relaxing activities:
- Snowshoe hiking through alpine forests
- Ice skating at Courchevel 1850’s rink
- Winter sled adventures
- Spa experiences and wellness centers
- Shopping for luxury fashion and local products
- Helicopter sightseeing flights (for the brave!)
There’s also a wide choice of ski schools and beginner-friendly slopes, making it ideal for new skiers and families with kids.
Accommodation Choices for Every Budget
- Luxury hotels like L’Apogée Courchevel or Cheval Blanc offer ski-in/ski-out access and prices starting from $1,000 USD per night.
- Mid-range options such as Hotel Les Monts Charvin or Hotel Le New Solarium range from $250 to $500 USD per night.
- Budget stays can be found in Courchevel Village or Le Praz, with cozy chalets and apartments from around $100 USD per night, especially if we book early.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Reserve ski passes and rentals in advance online for lower rates and to skip the queues.
- Download the Courchevel ski app for live updates on lift status, slope conditions, and maps.
- Wear layers: weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Don’t miss the sunrise or sunset from Saulire peak — it’s absolutely magical.
- Bring cash and card: while most places accept cards, some local shops and services prefer cash.
Let’s Meet in the Mountains!
Courchevel invites us into a world of snowy magic, where alpine charm and stylish adventure go hand in hand. We can glide down the sparkling slopes, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in a cozy chalet, and explore charming villages surrounded by dramatic mountain views. Every moment here feels like a winter postcard come to life.
Ready to plan our perfect snowy escape? If you’d like help building a 3-day Courchevel itinerary or choosing the best area to stay, just say the word — we’re here to help make it unforgettable.
The Most Luxurios Ski Resort In The World - Courchevel, France
Video by Jackson Lebsack
