At the end of one of the world’s largest lift-linked ski areas, the Trois Valleés you’ll find Courchevel. This resort offers some of the best skiing, not just in France, but in the world, and Courchevel aficionados will wax lyrical about it.It’s easy to see why it’s one of our very favourite resorts. From crisp snow to easy access to fantastic slopes, Courchevel provides brilliant skiing and snowboarding, and an even better apres scene, year after year…
Here are just a few of the reasons why Courchevel deserves its rave reviews.
For Variety
Especially for those travelling in larger groups or families, there’s likely to be a range of ski experience amongst you. Certain resorts are geared towards beginners and certain resorts are renowned for their black slopes. But if half of you are just getting your snow feet, and the other half are surging down the pistes no problem, where do you go?
Well, the variety of Courchevel Skiing is one of its benefits. The resort’s many north-facing pistes naturally provide excellent snow conditions, which are maintained daily. But in addition, the slopes come in all shapes and sizes. Beginners can head to Courchevel 1650 to enjoy the long and easy green slopes. Around 75% of the Trois Valleés pistes are blue or red and are better suited to those wanting to build up their mileage on more challenging snow.
For families
If you’re bringing the kids to Courchevel you’ll be happy to know the resort has many British-run schools with strong reputations. New Generation is a school which now operates across all the Alps but was started in Courchevel 20 years ago. Their kids group lessons provide a fun and safe environment for your children to work on their ski skills before they head out for fun on the nursery slopes.
For Apres
Courchevel doesn’t have the liveliest après-ski scene, compared to say Val d’Isere, but if you know where to look you’re guaranteed to find somewhere to enjoy the table stomping and big party atmosphere you might be seeking.
In the heart of Courchevel 1850 Ku De Ta offers a raucous atmosphere that starts at 4pm and runs ‘til late. Enjoy crêpes alongside your vin chaud and take in an authentic ski experience! For something even more authentic you might want to head down the resorts towards Courchevel 1650 (easily accessible at night by taxi). Bar les Schuss has the décor of a traditional mountain lodge and an authentic Savoyarde style. It’s the place to go if you like to party at a slower pace, perfect for relaxing after a sore day on the slopes.
For Other Activities
It’s not all about skiing in Courchevel. The toboggan run is a big highlight before everyone heads home. Plunging from Courchevel 1850 to 1550 the 2.3km track is free to lift pass holders and ends your day with a rush. The area is lit until 7:30pm each night.
There’s also cookery classes, mountain biking – on the snow!, ski joering, sledging, and snow-cat driving, plus a giant swimming pool with slides and a river, as well as a spa area and aqua-activities such as surfing (yep!).
For accommodation
One of our favourite stays is at Hôtel Courchevel Olympic, a homely and welcoming base in the heart of Courchevel 1850. With easy access to the slopes and an intimate atmosphere where you can relax by the fire, or enjoy a drink in the evening, it’s just what you need at the end of a busy day.
So there you have it, just a few reasons that we at Madame Vacances love this resort so much – and we’re sure that you will too!