Courchevel Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Courchevel. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Courchevel
Courchevel photo 2
Courchevel photo 3
All photos

Courchevel, France, combines linked Three Valleys skiing, alpine villages, mountain dining, summer trails and Savoyard heritage in every season.

A Mountain Resort in the Tarentaise

Courchevel occupies the upper part of the Saint-Bon valley in France’s Savoie department, rising above the Tarentaise Valley in the northern French Alps. Rather than a single compact settlement, it is a vertical series of villages and resort districts: Le Praz at about 1,300 metres, Courchevel Village at 1,550 metres, Courchevel Moriond at 1,650 metres and Courchevel at 1,850 metres. Together they form part of Les 3 Vallées, one of the world’s largest linked ski areas, with extensive high-altitude terrain beneath the summits of the Saulire and surrounding peaks.
Read more about Courchevel

Four Seasons on the Slopes

Winter defines Courchevel, with lift-served skiing, snowboarding, ski touring and mountain views extending towards Méribel, Les Menuires and Val Thorens through the interconnected 3 Vallées network. The different villages have distinct characters, from the wooded setting and Olympic ski-jump heritage of Le Praz to the high-altitude resort architecture and sophisticated hospitality of Courchevel 1850. Snow conditions, terrain and lift access vary with elevation, making the choice of base an important part of planning a stay.

Landscape, Heritage and Local Character

In summer, the resort becomes a gateway to hiking, mountain biking, climbing and lakeside walks around the forested slopes and alpine pastures. Lac de la Rosière, near Courchevel Moriond, is among the area’s best-known outdoor settings, while the Dent du Villard provides a distinctive rocky backdrop above the valley. Local Savoyard food—cheeses, cured meats, potatoes, alpine herbs and regional wines—remains central to the destination’s identity. Courchevel’s modern history is closely tied to post-war mountain planning, while Le Praz retains the strongest connection with older village life and the ski-jumping events of the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics.

When is the best time to visit Courchevel?

Best: June–August · 20–23°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January150
February245
March445
April935
May1535
June (best)2035
July (best)2335
August (best)2335
September1835
October1245
November750
December350

Getting to and around Courchevel

How to get there

Courchevel is reached by the mountain road from Moûtiers through Brides-les-Bains and Bozel, with the route continuing to the different resort levels. Moûtiers is the principal rail gateway for the Tarentaise resorts, with connections from larger French cities varying by season; onward travel requires a road transfer, coach or taxi. Geneva, Lyon and Chambéry airports are commonly used by international visitors, but each lies outside Courchevel and requires a longer road journey. Seasonal coaches and private transfers may serve the resort, while drivers should check winter road conditions and local restrictions before travelling.

Transportation

The resort’s villages are connected by local roads and a network of lifts, with inter-village buses and ski shuttles operating according to the season and current local arrangements. Skiers can use the lift system to move between the Courchevel sectors and, where conditions and passes allow, into the wider 3 Vallées. A car is useful for reaching outlying sites and lower valley settlements but can be inconvenient in snowy conditions. Walking between resort levels is possible on selected routes, although steep gradients and winter conditions make local transport more practical for many journeys.

Best attractions in Courchevel

Courchevel’s principal attraction is the extensive ski terrain reached from its four main levels, with routes extending across the Courchevel sector and into the wider 3 Vallées when lifts and passes permit. Le Praz combines a traditional village setting with the Olympic ski-jump complex, while Courchevel Moriond provides access to Lac de la Rosière, a wooded mountain lake surrounded by walking routes and rocky slopes. Above the resort, the Saulire sector delivers high-alpine scenery and links towards Méribel; the Dent du Villard forms a distinctive landmark on the Courchevel side of the valley. In summer, visitors explore forest tracks, alpine pastures and marked hiking trails on foot or by mountain bike, with routes varying considerably in steepness and exposure. The resort’s different villages are attractions in their own right, offering contrasting architecture, altitude, views and access to restaurants, shops and mountain activities.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in Courchevel

The Saulire ridge is Courchevel’s defining high-mountain landmark, separating the resort from Méribel and forming one of the principal viewpoints and lift-accessed areas in the 3 Vallées. The Dent du Villard, a sharply profiled limestone summit above the valley, gives the Courchevel landscape a readily recognisable geological and visual feature. Lac de la Rosière is an important natural landmark near Courchevel Moriond, set within forest and steep mountain terrain. In Le Praz, the ski-jump facilities are the destination’s most significant modern sporting landmark, recalling the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics. The stepped arrangement of the resort villages is itself notable: Le Praz preserves the strongest traditional settlement character, while the higher stations express the post-war planning and architecture that transformed Courchevel into an international alpine resort.

Show more landmarks

Explore Courchevel on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Courchevel

Courchevel has one of the most developed dining scenes in the French Alps, ranging from traditional Savoyard restaurants and mountain eateries to gastronomic establishments in the higher resort villages. Local cooking draws on ingredients and dishes associated with Savoie, including fondue, raclette, tartiflette, croûte, alpine cheeses, cured meats and regional pastries, alongside contemporary French cuisine and international menus. Dining options are concentrated in Courchevel 1850, Courchevel Moriond, Courchevel Village and Le Praz, while mountain restaurants serve skiers and walkers during the appropriate seasons. The resort is also known for a strong fine-dining culture, although restaurants change over time and advance planning is often sensible in busy periods. Traditional village inns and cafés in Le Praz and the lower valley provide a more informal setting for regional specialities, coffee and après-ski meals.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in Courchevel

Evenings in Courchevel range from quiet village hospitality to an affluent après-ski and late-night scene, particularly in Courchevel 1850. Bars, hotel lounges and après-ski venues are concentrated around the main resort centres, while Le Praz, Courchevel Village and Courchevel Moriond generally offer a more relaxed choice of pubs, cafés and accommodation-based bars. The character of the evening depends strongly on the season, with winter bringing the greatest concentration of visitors and entertainment. Courchevel is not principally a clubbing destination across all its villages, and facilities outside the main resort areas are limited. In summer, evenings are more likely to centre on restaurants, local events, terrace drinks and the peaceful atmosphere of the mountain settlements than on extensive nightlife.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in Courchevel

Evenings in Courchevel range from quiet village hospitality to an affluent après-ski and late-night scene, particularly in Courchevel 1850. Bars, hotel lounges and après-ski venues are concentrated around the main resort centres, while Le Praz, Courchevel Village and Courchevel Moriond generally offer a more relaxed choice of pubs, cafés and accommodation-based bars. The character of the evening depends strongly on the season, with winter bringing the greatest concentration of visitors and entertainment. Courchevel is not principally a clubbing destination across all its villages, and facilities outside the main resort areas are limited. In summer, evenings are more likely to centre on restaurants, local events, terrace drinks and the peaceful atmosphere of the mountain settlements than on extensive nightlife.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in Courchevel

Shopping is concentrated in the resort villages, especially Courchevel 1850, where visitors find fashion, ski equipment, outdoor clothing, food shops, galleries and specialist boutiques rather than a traditional regional market town. Courchevel Moriond, Courchevel Village and Le Praz provide smaller selections of everyday goods, sports equipment, bakeries and locally oriented shops. Regional purchases include Savoie cheeses, cured meats, confectionery, mountain herbs, wines from the wider Savoie area and locally made crafts, although product ranges vary by season and settlement. Skiers can arrange equipment hire and servicing in the principal resort centres, while visitors seeking larger supermarkets or a broader choice of practical supplies may need to use lower valley towns such as Bozel or Moûtiers. Permanent markets and artisan workshops should not be assumed at every resort level.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Courchevel, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Courchevel essentials

Currency and Payment
France uses the euro (€), and cards are widely accepted in hotels, ski schools, restaurants, lift offices and shops throughout the main Courchevel resort areas. Contactless payment is common, although a PIN or alternative payment method may occasionally be needed. Cash remains useful for small purchases, mountain huts, tips or businesses experiencing connectivity problems. Cash machines are more readily available in the resort villages than on the mountain, so visitors heading into remote areas should not rely on finding payment facilities away from settled centres.
Safety
Mountain conditions can change quickly, with snowfall, wind, ice, fog and rapid temperature changes affecting roads, pistes and walking routes. Follow the current instructions of the ski area and local authorities, respect piste markings and never enter closed terrain. Off-piste skiing, ski touring and summer hikes require proper preparation and an honest assessment of ability, equipment and weather. Steep paths, icy pavements, altitude and limited daylight can create difficulties outside the resort. On the road, allow for winter conditions and use the required equipment under French regulations when applicable.
Emergency Situations
In France, call 112 for the European emergency number, 15 for medical assistance, 17 for the police and 18 for the fire and rescue service. When calling from the mountains, give the resort village, piste or lift name, route, visible landmarks and the location shown by any available mapping or emergency application. For an incident on a marked ski area, contact ski patrol or the lift operator as soon as possible. Carry identification and relevant insurance details, and remember that mobile coverage may vary on remote slopes and trails.
Do's and Don'ts
Do respect piste signs, closures, priority rules and the instructions of ski patrol, lift staff and mountain professionals. Keep to permitted paths, take all waste away from the mountains and avoid disturbing wildlife or grazing animals. Do not cross barriers or enter avalanche-control areas, closed pistes or private land without permission. In villages, keep noise to a reasonable level and respect residents and shared accommodation. French dining etiquette is generally relaxed but courteous; service charges are included, while a modest discretionary tip is appropriate when service has been particularly good.
Local Tips
Le Praz is a useful base for visitors interested in village atmosphere and Olympic ski-jump heritage, while the higher levels provide more immediate access to the main ski network. Courchevel Moriond offers access to Lac de la Rosière and surrounding summer paths, although seasonal transport and facilities should be checked locally. Plan wider 3 Vallées ski days around lift opening and closing times, as returning across the network requires a margin for weather or delays. In summer, lower valley villages and higher mountain routes offer contrasting experiences, so a vehicle or carefully checked local transport can be valuable.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloBonjour[bohn-zhoor]
GoodbyeAu revoir[oh ruh-vwah]
YesOui[wee]
NoNon[noh]
Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien[seel voo pleh/duh ryen]
Thank youMerci[mehr-see]
Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé[ex-kew-zay mwah/dey-zoh-lay]
How are you?Comment ça va?[koh-mohn sah vah]
Fine. And you?Bien. Et toi?[byen. ay twah]
Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?[par-lay voo ahn-glay]
I don't understandJe ne comprends pas[zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît[zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande[zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
Cheers!Santé![sahn-tay]
I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît[zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Au secours![oh suh-coor]
Go away!Allez-vous en![ah-lay voo zahn]
Call the Police!Appelez la Police![ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin![ah-peh-lay uh meh-deh-sahn]
I'm lostJe suis perdu[zhuh swee pair-doo]
I'm illJe suis malade[zhuh swee mah-lahd]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...[zhuh voo-dray zheh-tay]
I'm just lookingJe regarde juste[zhuh ruh-gard zhewst]
How much is it?Combien ça coûte?[kohm-byen sah koot]
That's too expensiveC'est trop cher[say troh shair]
Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?[poo-veh voo bay-say luh pree]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?[kell uhr eh-teel]
It's one o'clockIl est une heure[eel eh tun uhr]
Half past (10)Dix et demie[dees ay duh-mee]
MorningMatin[mah-tahn]
AfternoonAprès-midi[ah-pray-mee-dee]
EveningSoir[swahr]
YesterdayHier[yehr]
TodayAujourd'hui[oh-zhoor-dwee]
TomorrowDemain[duh-mahn]
1Un[uhn]
2Deux[duh]
3Trois[twah]
4Quatre[kah-truh]
5Cinq[sank]
6Six[sees]
7Sept[set]
8Huit[wheet]
9Neuf[nuhf]
10Dix[dees]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Où est le/la...?[oo eh luh/lah]
What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?[kell eh la-dress]
Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?[poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?[kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)]
A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)[uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Courchevel

The Alpine Landscape

Courchevel’s terrain was shaped by the geological history of the Alps and later modified by glaciers, which carved the steep Tarentaise valleys and left forests, pastures and high mountain basins. The resort’s slopes rise from the Doron de Bozel valley towards the Saulire ridge and the Vanoise mountains. This combination of varied gradients, north-facing snowfields and accessible upland terrain later made the area suitable for a major ski destination, while traditional agriculture continued in lower villages and alpine pastures.

Saint-Bon and Mountain Settlement

Before Courchevel became an international resort, the area formed part of the commune of Saint-Bon-Tarentaise, whose settlement pattern reflected the demanding geography of the valley. Le Praz and the lower hamlets were linked to farming, forestry and seasonal pastoral activity, with buildings and local customs shaped by Savoyard mountain life. The steep slopes limited large-scale agriculture, but summer grazing and haymaking helped maintain the open pastures that remain part of the landscape above the villages.

Post-War Resort Planning

Courchevel’s modern development began after the Second World War, when public authorities pursued the creation of a purpose-planned ski resort in the upper Saint-Bon valley. Architect and planner Laurent Chappis played an important role in developing the concept of a high-altitude station integrated with the terrain rather than a conventional village built along a narrow valley floor. The first lifts and accommodation established the foundations of Courchevel 1850, while later development extended down the mountain through Courchevel Moriond, Courchevel Village and Le Praz.

The Rise of Les 3 Vallées

Courchevel’s importance grew as lift connections expanded across the surrounding valleys. It became one of the principal gateways to Les 3 Vallées, linking the Courchevel, Méribel and Belleville sectors and allowing skiers to travel between a wide range of resorts and elevations. This network altered the local economy by shifting emphasis from largely seasonal mountain agriculture towards tourism, hospitality, ski instruction, lift operation and related services, while also making transport, planning and environmental management increasingly important.

Olympic and Contemporary Courchevel

Le Praz gained international attention during the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics, when its ski-jumping facilities hosted the jumping events and Nordic combined competition. The Olympic association remains visible in the village’s sporting identity. Since the late twentieth century, Courchevel has continued to develop as a four-season destination, combining high-end hospitality with mass-market skiing, summer mountain recreation and continuing investment in lifts and public spaces. Its history now reflects the wider challenge of balancing tourism, alpine environmental pressures and the character of established villages.

Courchevel in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Neighbouring destination travel guides

The closest destinations to Courchevel, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

Rhône-Alpes
More of the region

Explore more of Rhône-Alpes

Discover the stunning landscapes, historic cities, and world-class ski resorts of Rhône-Alpes, a French region that offers a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Explore Rhône-Alpes
France
More of the country

Explore more of France

Explore France: A land of romance, history, and unparalleled beauty, from the iconic streets of Paris to the serene landscapes of Provence and the luxury of the French Riviera.

Explore France
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Courchevel

Discover the best of Courchevel with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, shops, restaurants, and more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities.
  • Rich set of information, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details.
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences.
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Unlock the ultimate travel experience in Courchevel with Evendo. This free, app-based guide helps you explore top attractions, book hotels, and enjoy local insights, all in one place.

  • History of Courchevel and travel essentials.
  • Tons of local advice and curated tips to experience the city like a local.
  • Easy navigation through the app and the city.
  • 'Near me' feature to discover nearby attractions.
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs.
  • Global coverage with information on 7,000+ other destinations.

Planning a trip to Courchevel? Evendo is your perfect travel companion. This free, app-based guide offers comprehensive information on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Courchevel. Whether you want to ski down the famous slopes, visit the iconic Courchevel Altiport, or dine at the renowned Le Chabichou, Evendo has you covered.

Our app provides detailed descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy to plan and organize your trip. No more endless searches for what to see, do, or experience. With Evendo, you can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and more, all in one place.

Explore the rich history of Courchevel, get travel essentials, and access tons of local advice to make the most out of your visit. Use the 'Near me' feature to discover attractions around you, no matter where you are. Experience Courchevel like a local with curated tips and easy navigation through both the app and the city. Download Evendo today and unlock the world, starting with Courchevel.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.