Anyone who has skied in Courchevel will usually mention two things; the skiing is superb but it comes at a price. Whilst the skiing is undeniably worth every euro, it is possible to ski here without taking out a second mortgage. It is both a resort where you can charter a private jet to fly into the tiny altiport and lunch at a two Michelin star restaurant; or you can arrive by coach and lunch on a €5 kebab (on the piste as well!).
There are five villages in Courchevel;1850, 1650, 1550, Le Praz and La Tania. The villages descend in size as you go down the mountain and all have their own distinct feel. Whilst 1850 is perhaps more sophisticated, you will find a good choice of restaurants and bars in all the villages. Courchevel isn’t a particularly cheap resort either, but there are budget options to be found further down the resort, especially in Le Praz. The shuttle bus links between the resorts is very good as well, so if you need to start your day in 1850 but are staying in another village, it will not take long to travel there.
Many visitors never bother leaving the village they are staying in all holiday, particularly those staying in a chalet. This is a shame as the villages all have something to offer and getting around is quite easy.
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Courchevel attracts tourists of many nationalities including some very affluent Russians which makes for some interesting people watching. Grab a coffee or a beer in one of the cafes and watch the world pass by.
• Arriving in style – fly into Courchevel Altiport
• Putting pedal to the metal behind the wheel of a Porsche on an ice circuit
• Having a gourmet meal at the 2 Michelin star Chabichou kitchen delivered to your door
• Heli-skiing in nearby Italy or Switzerland
• Organising your own torchlit descent
| Nearest airports | Type of resort | Stay in | Go for a |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chambery Geneva Grenoble Lyon | Mega resort | Chalets Hotels Independent Travel Self-Catered Tour operator | Week Week+ Weekend |
| Good for | On the piste | Children | Food and drink |
| Cross-country Freestyle Off-piste Snowboarding | British ski schools Free nursery slopes Mobile ski hire Online lift passes Ski in, ski out | Creches Babysitting Ski schools | Apres-ski Evening drinking Resort dining Vegetarian Family friendly Live music Late drinking Mountain dining |
| Other | Other activities | ||
| Internet access Churches | Adrenaline fuelled Sightseeing Relaxation Shopping |