Courchevel Travel Guide

Looking for an ideal ski destination? Explore Courchevel – a world-renowned ski resort situated in the heart of the French Alps. Discover its charming villages, scenic routes, delicious cuisine and more with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Courchevel

Nestled in the stunning French Alps, Courchevel is a world-renowned ski resort situated in Les Trois Vallées, consisting of four carefully planned villages, each with its unique charm. With 150 km of pistes and ample off-piste options, it has become a popular destination among winter sports enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Courchevel

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Le Museum Courchevel: This museum houses artefacts, photographs, and documents on the history of Courchevel and its skiing culture.
  2. Notre-Dame de la Vie Chapel: This beautiful chapel dates back to the 17th century and is located in the heart of Courchevel 1850.
  3. Saint-Bon-Tarentaise: This village has a rich history, with artefacts dating back to the Bronze Age.

Natural Attractions of Courchevel: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. La Saulire: At 2738 meters high, this mountain peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
  2. Chenus Peak: Perfect for expert skiers, it boasts black pistes that provide an adrenaline-fuelled skiing experience.
  3. Lac de la Rosiere: This tranquil lake, located in the heart of the mountains, is an ideal spot for a scenic picnic.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Courchevel

  1. The Grand Tour of the Allues Valley: This stunning hike stretches for 24 km and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and mountain streams.
  2. La Tania to Le Praz: This 7 km hike offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  3. Courchevel to Meribel: This 12 km hike boasts stunning views and is suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Best Things to Do in Courchevel: Activities and Tours

  1. Skiing: With over 150 km of pistes and plenty of off-piste options, Courchevel is the perfect destination for skiers of all levels.
  2. Snowshoeing: Take in the stunning views of the French Alps with a guided snowshoe tour.
  3. Ice Skating: Enjoy a leisurely skate around the outdoor ice rink in Courchevel 1850.

Week-Long Itinerary for Courchevel

| Day | Activities | | — | ———————————————————————————————————————————————– | | 1 | Skiing in Courchevel | | 2 | Snowshoeing Tour & Visit to La Saulire | | 3 | Skiing in Meribel | | 4 | Ice Skating & Visit to Chenus Peak | | 5 | Visit to Saint-Bon-Tarentaise followed by lunch at Le Bel Air | | 6 | Skiing in Courchevel | | 7 | Farewell dinner at the Michelin-starred Le Chabichou or Le 1947 |

Food and Drink Scene of Courchevel

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fondue Savoyarde: A traditional dish of melted cheese, bread, and potatoes.
  2. Tartiflette: A delicious casserole of potatoes, onions, lardons, and Reblochon cheese.
  3. Croziflette: A dish of sautéed pasta, lardons, and Beaufort cheese.

Local Beverages

  1. Genepi: An Alpine herbal liqueur with a distinct flavour.
  2. Chartreuse: A green or yellow herbal liqueur made by Carthusian monks.
  3. Vin Chaud: A steaming hot wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and other spices.

Where to Stay in Courchevel: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Le Strato: A luxurious five-star hotel with stunning mountain views.
  2. Chalet White Dream: A charming guesthouse offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  3. Les Grandes Alpes Private Hotel & Spa: A 5-star hotel that provides upscale amenities such as an indoor pool and spa.

What to Buy in Courchevel: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Beaufort Cheese: A local cheese made from the milk of Alpine cows.
  2. Genepi: A herbal liqueur that makes for a great gift with its unique flavour.
  3. Handmade Wooden Crafts: Beautifully crafted items made from natural wood, including wooden skis.

Local Culture and Customs of Courchevel

The locals in Courchevel are known for their traditional way of living, with the region’s history and culture being kept alive through numerous festivals and celebrations. Be sure to interact with the locals, learn about their traditions and culture.

Best Time to Visit Courchevel

The best time to visit Courchevel is from December to April when the ski season is in full swing. August is also a great time to visit, when the weather is milder and the peaks are green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Courchevel

Do:

  1. Dress Warmly: The temperature drops drastically in the evenings, so it’s important to wear appropriate clothing to stay warm.
  2. Book Ski Lessons: Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, consider booking a ski lesson to get the most out of your skiing experience.
  3. Try Local Food and Drink: Courchevel has a rich culinary heritage, so don’t miss out on sampling the authentic local cuisine.

Don’t:

  1. Leave your Valuables Unattended: While Courchevel is generally safe, it’s important to be vigilant and keep your valuables with you at all times.
  2. Ignore Safety Instructions: Always follow the safety instructions provided by ski instructors or other officials to ensure your wellbeing.
  3. Be Late for Ski Lifts: The ski lifts operate strictly on schedule, so always make sure to arrive on time to avoid missing your ride.

Safety and Health

Safety in Courchevel

The ski resort management works hard to ensure the safety of tourists, including monitoring the slopes regularly for avalanches. It’s important for tourists to always follow safety instructions and not overestimate their skiing abilities.

Health in Courchevel

Medical facilities are readily available in Courchevel, with the main hospital located in Moutiers. Tourists are advised to take travel insurance, get vaccinations before travelling, and carry necessary medications.

Getting to Courchevel: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Courchevel

  1. Chambery Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport: About 100 km from Courchevel.
  2. Geneva Airport: About 143 km from Courchevel.

Bus Stations Near Courchevel

  1. Moûtiers: The nearest bus station, located about 7 km from Courchevel.
  2. Lyon: A major bus station located about 200 km from Courchevel.

Other Options

Tourists can also consider travelling to Courchevel by train or private car.

How to Get Around in Courchevel

Courchevel is easily navigable on foot, with the main villages being within walking distance from each other. Tourists can also use the free shuttle service provided by the ski resort management to commute between the villages.

Where to Go Next from Courchevel: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Val Thorens: Another ski resort located in the Les Trois Vallées region.
  2. Chamonix: A picturesque French town located at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe.
  3. Lake Geneva: A stunning lake located about 150 km from Courchevel.

Conclusion

Courchevel is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a world-class skiing experience and a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the French Alps. With its stunning natural beauty, warm and friendly locals, and vibrant food and drink scene, it’s an unforgettable holiday destination for tourists from all around the world.