The Ultimate Luxury Guide to Courchevel 1850

Few ski resorts in the world are as iconic as Courchevel 1850. Located in the heart of the French Alps and forming part of the vast Three Valleys ski area, Courchevel has become synonymous with luxury winter holidays. Home to world-class skiing, Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques and some of the most spectacular chalets in Europe, it attracts everyone from families and seasoned skiers to celebrities and royalty.

Yet despite its glamorous reputation, Courchevel is far more than a luxury playground. Beneath the designer labels and champagne terraces lies one of Europe's finest ski resorts, offering exceptional skiing for all abilities, outstanding family facilities and an atmosphere that combines sophistication with genuine Alpine charm.

Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for another unforgettable winter escape, this guide covers everything you need to know about Courchevel 1850.

Where Is Courchevel 1850?

Courchevel is located in the Savoie region of the French Alps and forms part of the world-famous Three Valleys ski area. The resort is made up of several villages: Courchevel Le Praz (1300), Courchevel Village (1550), Courchevel Moriond (1650) and Courchevel 1850. Of these, Courchevel 1850 is considered the most prestigious, offering the highest concentration of luxury hotels, designer boutiques, fine dining restaurants and premium ski access.

Its elevated position places visitors directly at the heart of the Three Valleys, providing seamless access to neighbouring resorts including Méribel, Val Thorens and Les Menuires.

What Makes Courchevel So Special?

Courchevel's reputation extends far beyond skiing. The resort has spent decades refining its luxury offering, creating a destination where service standards rival some of the finest hotels in the world.

Visitors come for exceptional skiing, Michelin-starred dining, luxury shopping, outstanding service, family-friendly facilities and beautiful mountain scenery. And while Courchevel certainly attracts affluent travellers, the mountain itself is enjoyed by everyone. Visitors staying in apartments, chalets and neighbouring villages all share access to the same world-class skiing.

Skiing in Courchevel

As part of the Three Valleys, Courchevel offers access to more than 600 kilometres of interconnected pistes. The ski area is renowned for its modern lift infrastructure, excellent grooming and remarkable variety of terrain. The Three Valleys links Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens, Les Menuires and Saint Martin de Belleville — together creating the largest interconnected ski area in the world.

Best Areas for Beginners

Courchevel is often regarded as one of Europe's best beginner destinations. Recommended areas include Verdons, Bellecôte and Pralong. Wide, gentle slopes and highly respected ski schools — including ESF Courchevel, Oxygène and New Generation — make learning enjoyable and stress-free.

Best Runs for Intermediate Skiers

Intermediate skiers are particularly well catered for. Highlights include Creux, Chapelets, Combe de la Saulire and Marmottes — offering spectacular scenery and excellent cruising terrain.

Best Runs for Advanced Skiers

For experienced skiers, standout runs include Grand Couloir, Saulire and Chanrossa. Grand Couloir — accessed via a narrow ridge above the Saulire cable car station — is steep, demanding and considered one of the most iconic runs in the Alps. Courchevel also offers excellent off-piste opportunities, particularly around Saulire and Chanrossa. Hiring a qualified mountain guide is highly recommended.

Courchevel for Families

Despite its luxurious reputation, Courchevel is one of the most family-friendly ski resorts in Europe. Families benefit from exceptional ski schools, dedicated beginner areas, childcare facilities, family-friendly restaurants and safe pedestrian areas. Many families return year after year thanks to the combination of convenience, safety and excellent skiing.

• ESF Courchevel
• Oxygène Ski School
• New Generation Ski School

The Best Restaurants in Courchevel 1850

Courchevel is widely recognised as one of the finest dining destinations in the Alps.

Le 1947

Located within Cheval Blanc, Le 1947 holds three Michelin stars and offers one of the most exclusive dining experiences in the Alps.

Le Chabichou

A Courchevel institution known for exceptional service and refined French cuisine.

Baumanière 1850

Located within Hôtel Strato, offering elegant dining in a sophisticated setting.

Best Mountain Restaurants

Bagatelle Courchevel combines glamorous Mediterranean flavours with an energetic atmosphere. Le Cap Horn is one of the resort's most famous restaurants, known for seafood, sushi and lively lunches. Chalet de Pierres is a popular piste-side venue offering traditional Alpine dishes and stunning views.

The Best Après Ski in Courchevel

Courchevel's après ski scene is sophisticated rather than rowdy.

Best Daytime Après Ski

La Folie Douce is the famous mountain venue combining DJs, live performers and an electric atmosphere. Bagatelle Courchevel is a glamorous lunch spot that naturally evolves into one of the resort's most fashionable après ski venues.

Best Bars

Bar de L'Apogée offers elegant cocktails and luxury surroundings. Le Bar du Strato is a refined venue ideal for pre-dinner drinks.

Best Nightlife

Les Caves de Courchevel is the resort's most iconic nightclub, attracting an international crowd throughout the winter season.

Luxury Shopping in Courchevel

Few ski resorts can rival Courchevel's shopping scene. Visitors will find boutiques from some of the world's most prestigious brands, including Louis Vuitton, Dior, Moncler, Fusalp and Prada. Shopping has become an experience in itself, particularly during the festive period.

Things to Do Beyond Skiing

Aquamotion

One of the largest mountain leisure complexes in Europe featuring pools, waterslides and wellness facilities.

Spa Experiences

Many luxury hotels offer exceptional wellness facilities and treatments.

Snowmobiling

A thrilling way to explore the mountains after dark.

Dog Sledding

A memorable family experience.

Scenic Helicopter Flights

Offering spectacular aerial views of the Alps.

The Best Mountain Lunch Spots

A long lunch in the sunshine is one of the great pleasures of a Courchevel ski holiday.

• Bagatelle — for atmosphere and people-watching
• Le Cap Horn — for exceptional food and a lively setting
• Chalet de Pierres — for traditional mountain charm
• La Soucoupe — for panoramic views and excellent cuisine

When Is the Best Time to Visit Courchevel?

December brings a magical festive atmosphere, Christmas markets and beautifully decorated streets. January offers excellent snow conditions and quieter slopes. February is peak season with a vibrant atmosphere. March delivers longer days, warmer temperatures and some of the best skiing of the season. April brings spring skiing, sunny terraces and relaxed mountain lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Courchevel expensive?

Courchevel offers experiences across a range of budgets, although 1850 sits at the luxury end of the market.

Is Courchevel good for beginners?

Yes — it is widely regarded as one of the best beginner ski resorts in Europe.

Is Courchevel family friendly?

Extremely. Families are one of the resort's core markets.

Do I need a car?

No. Most visitors rely on transfers and local resort transport.

Can non-skiers enjoy Courchevel?

Absolutely. Shopping, dining, spas and activities provide plenty to do away from the slopes.

Is Courchevel Worth It?

Without question. Courchevel successfully combines exceptional skiing, outstanding dining, luxury hospitality and family-friendly facilities into one of the most complete winter holiday experiences in Europe. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another unforgettable season in the Alps, Courchevel consistently delivers.

At Éclat Collection, we specialise in creating exceptional luxury ski holidays tailored to your exact requirements. Get in touch to start planning your perfect Courchevel escape.