Courchevel is one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the French Alps. It is famous for luxury hotels, designer shopping, incredible restaurants, lively après-ski, and some of the best mountain views in Europe. However, there is much more to Courchevel than skiing and expensive hotels. In this guide, I share the best things to do in Courchevel, where to stay, where to eat, and which village may be right for your trip.
Courchevel is made up of six villages, and each one feels a little different. Some are full of luxury hotels and restaurants, while others feel more traditional and relaxed.
There are plenty of activities and things to do in Courchevel for skiers, families, couples, and people who do not ski at all. You can ride a gondola to a mountain viewpoint, go dog sledding, relax at a spa, swim at Aquamotion, shop in Courchevel 1850, or enjoy lunch with a live show high in the mountains. This is the perfect place to experience it all.
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Where to Stay in Courchevel for All Budgets
What Is So Special About Courchevel?
Courchevel is part of Les Trois Vallées, also called the Three Valleys. It is the largest connected ski area in the world, with about 600 km of pistes across Courchevel, Meribel, Les Menuires, and Val Thorens. The huge ski area is the main draw, but the resort also offers a whole host of other activities.
What makes the resort of Courchevel special is how easily luxury and outdoor fun come together. You can spend the morning downhill skiing, have lunch at a beautiful mountain restaurant, shop at Dior or Louis Vuitton, and finish the day with a spa treatment or fine dining. Many luxury hotels offer direct access to the slopes, so a ski holiday here can feel very easy.
The views you get in Courchevel are absolutely spectacular! From higher points such as La Saulire, you can see snowy landscapes, sharp mountain peaks, and Mont Blanc on a clear day.
The resort is polished and glamorous, but you can still find quiet alpine villages, family activities, and peaceful places in nature.
Which Courchevel Village Should I Choose?
Courchevel is not one single town. It includes six villages at different heights on the mountain. Free resort buses and ski lifts connect the main areas, although travel times and lift schedules can change with the season. Choosing the right village can make a big difference in your trip.
Courchevel 1850
Courchevel 1850 is the heart of Courchevel and the most famous area. This is where you will find the largest number of luxury hotels, designer stores, elegant bars, and Michelin-star restaurants. La Croisette is the busy center, with ski lifts, ski schools, shops, and restaurants close together.
This area is a great place if you want easy ski access and you enjoy a lively luxury setting. Even if you stay in another village, it is worth coming here for shopping, drinks, dinner, and people watching. Prices are highest in this part of the resort.
Courchevel 1650
Courchevel Moriond or Courchevel 1650 has a sunny position, a friendly feel, and many restaurants and bars. It is an ideal spot if you are coming with a whole family or groups who want a fun atmosphere without staying in the most expensive part of Courchevel 1850.
Courchevel 1550
Courchevel Village or Courchevel 1550 is quieter and typically offers better value than Courchevel 1850. The Grangettes gondola connects the two villages in only a few minutes when it is running.
Courchevel La Tania
La Tania sits at 1400 meters, surrounded by trees, and has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. The center is mostly pedestrian, which makes it easy to walk around. You’ll find apartments, chalets, and laid-back restaurants here. It’s a great base within Courchevel’s villages if you want easy ski access to the Three Valleys.
Courchevel 1300
Courchevel Le Praz is a charming village located at around 1,300 meters altitude. Here you’ll find wooden chalets, narrow streets, and a traditional alpine vibe that feels very different from the busier parts of Courchevel. The ski jumps from the 1992 Winter Olympics are still here and are one of the main landmarks in the village. If you want to experience a quieter, more authentic side of the Alps, this is a great place to explore.
12 Best Things To Do in Courchevel
1. Ski Across the Three Valleys
If you visit Courchevel, skiing should be at the top of your list. The local ski area has something for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers. If you want to explore more, get the Three Valleys pass and enjoy hundreds of kilometers of pistes. There are plenty of ski schools here, so you can take group or private lessons. If you prefer snowboarding, you’ll find schools for that too.
2. Ride up to La Saulire
A trip to La Saulire is one of the best things to do in Courchevel for spectacular views. The summit area sits above Courchevel and Meribel at more than 2,700 m altitude. On a clear day, the panoramic views stretch across the French Alps and toward Mont Blanc.
3. Visit Aquamotion
If you’re looking for something to do indoors, Aquamotion is the place to go. It’s a huge leisure center with indoor and outdoor pools, lagoons, and water slides. You can also relax in the wellness area with hot tubs, saunas, and a steam room. Just keep in mind that some areas and activities need separate tickets.
4. Go Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is an unforgettable experience! It’s a fun way to see the snowy landscapes away from the busy slopes. You can just sit back in the sled while a guide leads the dogs, or if you’re feeling adventurous, some places let you learn how to guide the team yourself.
5. Take a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride
If you want to enjoy Courchevel’s snowy scenery without skiing, try a horse drawn carriage ride. You can sit under a warm blanket while the carriage takes you through the resort and the mountains. These rides are seasonal and spots can fill up fast, so I recommend booking ahead.
6. Go Sledding
Sledding is another fun option in Courchevel, especially if you’re with kids or friends. There are marked sled runs, including a long one between Courchevel 1850 and Courchevel Village. If you’re looking for something more exciting, Moriond has a racing-style course with turns and tunnels when the weather is right.
7. Go Ice Skating at Patinoire du Forum
Patinoire du Forum is the ice rink inside Le Forum in Courchevel 1850. It’s a great way to spend time after skiing or on a snowy afternoon. Le Forum also has shops, services, and other indoor activities, like a bowling alley.
8. Make Sure to Enjoy Apres Ski
Apres ski is a huge part of the winter season in Courchevel. You can enjoy live music on a sunny terrace, sip cocktails at a hotel bar, or join a full-on afternoon party with dancers and a DJ. Some places are only accessible on skis, so make sure you know how you’ll get back before you order another drink.
9. Book a Hot Air Balloon or Helicopter Flight
For spectacular views of the mountains, hot air balloon ride or helicopter flight is a great option. These experiences offer gorgeous scenery and a very different view of the valleys and peaks. Just remember that flights depend on the weather and can be canceled at the last minute.
10. Try Cross-Country Skiing or Ski Touring
Cross country skiing is a great way to enjoy the landscape at a slower pace. Courchevel has groomed trails in different areas, like near Le Praz and La Tania. If it’s your first time, you can rent equipment and take a lesson to get started.
11. Visit Lac De La Rosière
Lac de la Rosiere is a beautiful lake below Courchevel Moriond. In summer, it is a great place for nature lovers, picnics, easy walks, or water activities. The clear mountain water and surrounding forest make it one of the prettiest places in the area.
12. Try a Guided Snowshoe Walk
A guided snowshoe walk is a peaceful way to explore forests, alpine meadows, and quiet viewpoints. It is also a great option if you don’t ski. Local guides can choose a route that fits your fitness level and explain more about the mountains.
Where to stay in Courchevel
Where you stay depends on your budget and the type of trip you want. Courchevel 1850 has the greatest choice of luxury hotels, while Moriond, Courchevel Village, Le Praz, and La Tania usually offer more mid level options. Hotel prices change greatly during Christmas, New Year, February school holidays, and other busy weeks.
Cheval Blanc Courchevel
Cheval Blanc Courchevel is one of the most famous luxury hotels in the resort. It has ski access, elegant rooms, a spa, a swimming pool, and several restaurants. It is also home to Le 1947, an intimate restaurant with three Michelin stars. This is a top choice for a very special luxury stay.
Ecrin Blanc Resort
Ecrin Blanc Resort is located between Courchevel Village and Courchevel Moriond. It has a warm modern design and direct access to Aquamotion through a private walkway. Rooms for families, restaurants, and easy lift access make it a good mid level option for travelers who want resort services without staying in central 1850.
Fahrenheit Seven Courchevel
Fahrenheit Seven is in Courchevel Moriond, right on the slopes. The hotel has a casual style, ski facilities, restaurants, and a sunny terrace. It is a great place for groups and families who want ski access and a social setting.
Where to find the BEST Après-Ski in Courchevel
Courchevel has so many places where lunch turns into an afternoon party. Some places have live DJs, music, dancing, and plenty of champagne. Others are more laid-back and perfect if you want to relax by the slopes.
Keep in mind that some of these après-ski places are spread out across the mountain. Most of them are easy to reach even if you are not skiing, either by gondola, taxi, or on foot. If you are skiing, most places close around 4 or 4:30 pm, so you will have enough time to ski back down to your village before the lifts close.
Bagatelle Courchevel
Bagatelle is hands down one of the most fun places I’ve been to in Courchevel. Here, lunch turns into a party with music, dancing, and a lively vibe. The crowd is stylish, there are DJs, and you’ll see lots of tables celebrating with champagne. I recommend making a reservation if you want to get a table.
La Folie Douce
La Folie Douce Meribel Courchevel is the place if you want a real mountain party. You get everything here: a restaurant, music, and a live show, all at high altitude. The atmosphere is very lively, but it can get crowded, so I suggest reserving a table for lunch. It’s easiest to get here if you’re skiing, but the route depends on which lifts and pistes are open.
Le Cap Horn
Le Cap Horn is a popular mountain restaurant near the Courchevel Altiport. The terrace is big and sunny, the music is always great, and the atmosphere is super lively. The waiters even get up on chairs and swing napkins to get everyone excited. I recommend making a reservation.
Le Chalet de Pierres
Le Chalet de Pierres is located inside what used to be a cable car station on the slopes. It has a beautiful terrace, traditional French dishes, music, and panoramic mountain views. If you want a lively lunch in a classic alpine setting, this is a great place to stop.
Le Tremplin
Le Tremplin at La Croisette is one of my favorite places for drinks after skiing. It’s right in the center of the village, surrounded by fancy shops, and the terrace is huge with a perfect view of the ski slopes.
Loulou Courchevel
Loulou Courchevel is inside Hotel Barriere Les Neiges in Courchevel 1850. The mountain decor is elegant, the food is a mix of Italian and French dishes, and there’s always music playing. The atmosphere is stylish and it’s perfect for a long lunch that turns into drinks.
Fire and Ice
Fire and Ice is located at Fahrenheit Seven in Courchevel Moriond (Courchevel 1650). It has a large outdoor terrace directly by the slopes, music, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is an easy place to stop after a day of skiing.
Cucina Angelina
Cucina Angelina is located inside Portetta in Courchevel Moriond. It is a relaxed place for après ski with warm wood and stone decor, comfortable sofas, and views of the slopes. The menu includes fresh pasta, Italian dishes, and French mountain favorites.
Where to Eat in Courchevel
Courchevel is a paradise for food lovers. You’ll find everything here, from traditional Savoyard dishes to fun mountain lunches, international and Michelin star restaurants. If you’re visiting during the winter, it gets very busy, so make sure to book your table in advance. Also, check the opening dates before you go, since many places are only open for part of the winter or summer season.
La Ferme Saint Amour Courchevel
La Ferme Saint Amour in Courchevel 1850 is one of the most glamorous restaurants in town. The alpine decor is stunning, with wooden walls, sheepskin-covered chairs, tall candlesticks, and bold artwork. The low lighting makes it feel cozy, sexy, and a bit mysterious. The menu is modern French, perfect for a winter night. There’s a DJ and live singer, so the place really comes alive in the evening, and dinner often turns into a dance party.
La Mangeoire
La Mangeoire is one of the most popular spots in Courchevel 1850. It’s a wooden chalet restaurant and piano bar with a lively atmosphere. The menu has a bit of everything: classic French food, local dishes, seafood, and even sushi. If you come here for dinner, you’ll get to enjoy live music, singers, and dancing all night. The vibe is really fun and energetic.
Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc
Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc Courchevel is a truly special place. The dining room is very intimate, with just five tables, so it feels incredibly exclusive. One of the highlights is being able to watch the chefs prepare each course in the open kitchen. This is the only restaurant in Courchevel with three Michelin stars, so if you want to treat yourself, this is the place to go.
Le Chabichou
Le Chabichou is inside the five-star Hôtel Le Chabichou in Courchevel 1850. You can pick from a five, seven, or nine course tasting menu. The restaurant has one Michelin star and is a great choice if you want a quieter dinner away from the party scene.
La Table de Charlie
If you’re looking for a casual and affordable dinner, try La Table de Charlie in Courchevel Moriond. It’s simple, with friendly service and tasty home-cooked food at good prices. I loved the beef tartare and escargots here.
How to Get to Courchevel
The easiest way to get to Courchevel is by flying into one of the nearby airports. Geneva, Lyon, Chambéry, and Grenoble are all good options.
Once you land, you can book a shared transfer if you want to save some money, or go for a private transfer that will take you directly to your hotel.
For the fastest and most scenic option, you can book a helicopter transfer from one of the nearby airports. The helicopter lands right at the Courchevel Altiport in Courchevel 1850. Just make sure to book ahead if you’re visiting during the busy winter months.
Tips for Visiting Courchevel
If you’re planning to visit during the holidays, make sure to book your hotel, ski lessons, and favorite restaurants as early as possible. These weeks are the busiest in Courchevel, and things get booked up fast!
Each village in Courchevel has its own vibe, so pick the one that fits your style. If you want luxury, shopping, and top restaurants, 1850 is the place to be. Moriond is perfect if you love sunshine and a lively, social atmosphere. Courchevel Village is great for easy access to the slopes and better value for your money. For a quieter, more authentic alpine experience, I recommend Le Praz or La Tania.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Courchevel
Courchevel may be known for skiing and luxury, but there is much more to experience. Between the traditional villages, mountain activities, relaxing spas, incredible restaurants, and panoramic views, it is easy to plan a trip that feels right for you.
You can fill your days with adventure or take things slowly with long lunches and quiet time in the mountains. No matter what you choose, the snowy landscapes and beautiful views will make your trip one to remember.
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Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.