Courchevel

Courchevel offers an exceptional range of ski pistes, covering approximately 150 km within its own domain. These include expansive blue runs perfect for cruising (e.g., Verdons, Biollay), challenging red pistes (e.g., Plantrey, Creux), and renowned black runs for expert skiers, such as the famous Combe de la Saulire (accessed via the Sommet de la Saulire peak). The area boasts diverse terrain, from wide-open bowls to tree-lined descents, along with designated beginner zones and fun parks. The quality of grooming is legendary, ensuring superb conditions throughout the season. Lift operating hours generally run from 9:00 AM to 4:45 PM during peak winter, with prices tied to the Courchevel or Les 3 Vallées pass.

Guided snowshoeing and winter hiking tours offer a tranquil way to explore Courchevel's pristine snowscapes away from the ski slopes. Excursions typically last 2-4 hours, exploring silent forests around Courchevel Moriond or the scenic trails leading to Lac de la Rosière. Tours cater to all levels, from gentle walks for families to more demanding half-day treks. Prices start from approximately 40-60 EUR per person for a half-day guided tour, including snowshoe rental. Guides provide insights into local flora and fauna, and ensure safety.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the French Alps from above with a tandem paragliding flight. Available year-round, these flights offer unparalleled panoramic views of the Tarentaise Valley and the Mont Blanc massif. Flights typically take off from various elevated points, such as above Courchevel 1850, depending on wind conditions, and last approximately 15-30 minutes. Prices range from 100 EUR to 150 EUR per flight, including equipment and instruction from certified pilots.

Embark on a serene hot air balloon journey over the Courchevel valley, offering a unique perspective of the alpine landscape at sunrise. Operating primarily in winter and sometimes in summer, these flights provide an unforgettable, peaceful experience high above the peaks. The entire experience, including preparation and landing, can take 3-4 hours, with approximately one hour of flight time. Prices are typically around 250-350 EUR per person, depending on the operator and flight duration.

For an adrenaline-fueled experience, Courchevel offers a professional ice driving circuit located between Courchevel 1850 and Courchevel Altiport. Participants can learn controlled skidding techniques and push luxury sports cars to their limits on a dedicated icy track. Sessions range from introductory laps to advanced rally courses, often lasting from 30 minutes to several hours. Prices vary widely, starting from approximately 150 EUR for a short session to over 500 EUR for advanced training.

Discover the traditional Savoyard roots of Courchevel with a guided cultural walk through Courchevel Le Praz (1300). This charming village retains much of its original character, with wooden chalets, a beautiful church, and the iconic Olympic ski jump. Tours delve into the history of the resort, local architecture, and traditional mountain life. Available primarily in summer and autumn, these walks are typically 1-2 hours and may be offered free or for a small fee by local guides.

Professional mountain guides offer bespoke ski touring excursions into Courchevel's extensive backcountry. These guided trips cater to all levels, from beginners seeking an introduction to ski touring to experienced enthusiasts looking for challenging ascents and untouched powder. Guides provide essential safety equipment (avalanche transceivers, shovels, probes) and expertise, ensuring a safe and memorable experience. Full-day tours can range from 150 EUR to 300 EUR per person, depending on group size and route complexity.

Courchevel boasts an extensive and well-maintained network of summer hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to demanding alpine treks. Popular routes include the picturesque loop around Lac Rosière, the gentle paths of the Jardin Alpin, and more strenuous ascents towards Col de la Loze, offering diverse landscapes from lush forests to high-alpine pastures. Trails are clearly marked with varying difficulty levels and estimated timings, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Many chairlifts and gondolas operate in summer for easy access to higher starting points.

Courchevel is a key part of Les 3 Vallées, the world's largest interconnected ski area. It boasts over 600 km of interconnected pistes, served by approximately 160 modern ski lifts. The domain offers an incredible variety of terrain: 17% green runs, 39% blue, 33% red, and 11% black, catering to all abilities. Courchevel's specific sector offers about 150 km of its own pistes. Lift passes vary, with a 6-day 3 Vallées pass costing around €350-€400 in high season. The domain is renowned for its excellent snow coverage, thanks to high altitudes and extensive snowmaking facilities.

An 18-hole golf course located at an altitude of 1850m, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. It's a technical course due to its mountainous terrain and narrow fairways, providing a unique challenge for golfers. Open from early July to late September, weather permitting. Green fees are approximately €70-€90 for 18 holes.

A thrilling via ferrata route accessible from the Verdons telecabin, offering spectacular views of the valley. It's classified as moderately difficult (AD+ to D-), combining climbing with hiking, secured by fixed cables, ladders, and bridges. Equipment rental (harness, helmet, lanyards) is available in resort. Suitable for experienced hikers and those with a good head for heights. Best undertaken with a guide.

Courchevel's ski area, a jewel within the larger Three Valleys, boasts approximately 150 km of meticulously groomed pistes, offering a diverse range of slopes for all abilities. It features dedicated areas for beginners, wide cruisy blues, challenging reds, and steep black runs. Noteworthy sectors include the gentle slopes of Courchevel Moriond (1650) ideal for families, the exhilarating terrain around Courchevel 1850, and the more secluded runs of La Tania and Le Praz. The resort prides itself on high-quality snowmaking facilities and efficient lift systems. Snowparks like the Family Park and the Wood Park provide freestyle opportunities. Ski passes offer various durations and coverage, with daily prices ranging from 60-75 EUR depending on the season and age.

Courchevel offers an extensive network of marked trails dedicated to cross-country skiing (Nordic skiing) and snowshoeing, providing a serene alternative to alpine skiing. There are approximately 66 km of Nordic ski trails spread across the different villages, catering to various skill levels. Popular areas include the beautiful forest trails around Courchevel Le Praz (1300) and Courchevel La Tania. Snowshoeing routes allow visitors to explore tranquil, untouched natural areas, often with guided tours available to discover local flora and fauna. Equipment rental is widely available, with trail access generally free or included in certain multi-activity passes.

In summer, Courchevel transforms into a fantastic destination for mountain biking. The resort offers dedicated MTB trails for all levels, from gentle family-friendly routes along the valley floor to challenging downhill tracks and enduro trails. Electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs) are increasingly popular, allowing riders to cover more ground and tackle steeper ascents with ease. Lifts like the Vizelle Gondola often operate to transport bikes to higher altitudes, providing access to extensive downhill networks. Bike rental shops are abundant, offering full suspension bikes and e-MTBs, with daily rentals starting from 40-80 EUR. Guided tours are also available to explore the best routes.