Fast turns, long lunches, and moments worth slowing down for. These ten ideas bring together the adventurous and the unhurried sides of Courchevel.
01
Skiing
Spend a day skiing
Push away from the lift, and let the mountain open out in front of you. Courchevel is part of Les 3 Vallées, with room for both easy first turns and expert off piste. Choose a piste that matches your ability; the best run is the one you enjoy, not the one that looks most impressive on a map.
Before you go Start with a lesson if you are new to skiing. Check the daily piste and lift report.
After a morning in the cold, a warm restaurant becomes a destination on its own. Try Bagatelle which serves traditional dishes such as fondue or raclette: melted cheese, potatoes, bread, and a good reason to go. From a relaxed village table to a mountain restaurant with a view, leave enough time to enjoy the meal.
Before you go Check menus and book ahead for the restaurant you have your heart set on.
A snowmobile brings a different kind of excitement: the engine beneath you, cold air against your cheeks, and the snow falling on your head. Book an organized session with your hotel, who sets the route and explains the controls. It is a chance to discover the mountain from a new perspective.
Before you go Ask the operator about age requirements, driver eligibility, equipment, and snow conditions.
Slow down and browse. Local markets are a chance to look beyond the slopes, from regional cheeses and sweets to small souvenirs. Go to the limited Christmas markets on Saturdays from November- March to enjoy some great bites.
Before you go Markets are seasonal. Confirm the current day and location locally before going.
The last run does not have to be the last moment of the day. Courchevel’s apres ski scene swaps the sound of skis for music, conversation, and dancing. Look for a loud evening or a lively party, then enjoy the change of mood as the mountains are in the background.
Before you go Choose a venue suited to your group and check its event schedule and entry requirements.
There is a particular feeling in hot chocolate after time in the snow: a warm cup, cold fingertips, and the first taste. Piste Noire in Le Forum, Courchevel 1850, is one place to make that happen. Give yourself time to sit for a while. The next adventure can wait.
Before you go Check current opening hours before making a special trip.
Details & planning ↗Hot chocolate in the snow. Illustrative photo taken in Istanbul.
Sit into a sled and watch a team of dogs pull you along the snow. It is an activity to enjoy rather than rush, especially if you love animals and snowy scenery.
Before you go Book with an established operator and follow the musher’s guidance around the dogs.
From the ground, a mountain can hide everything beyond it. A helicopter ride reveals the entire landscape of Courchevel. It is a special occasion choice for anyone curious by the view from above.
Before you go Confirm the route, price, and operating conditions directly; flights depend on weather. It is also quite expensive.
You do not need skis to enjoy the journey up the mountain. A accessible gondola ride lets you take a break from the village while the mountains fill the windows. For non-skiers, it is a simple way to see the mountain scenery without skiing.
Before you go Check which lifts accept pedestrians, the right pass, and the last descent before setting off.
Walking in Courchavel is an amazing activity. Although you may not go far it makes room for details you miss at speed. It is also a great experience for non- skiers to enjoy the beauty of the mountains.
Before you go Use a route suited to the season and current conditions. Winter walks need appropriate footwear and local advice.