Courchevel

Courchevel in the Trois Vallees or Three Valley region of France, is one of the most famous skiing vacation destinations in Europe. Located in France’s Savoy province to the west of Lyon, it is one of the most cosmopolitan resorts in the world. Trois Vallees is one of the most extensive and impressive ski areas in the world and Courchevel was one of the first purpose built ski resorts in France.

Courchevel is actually not one ski vacation resort but five, built at four levels and some of them differentiated by a number. They share the same ski area but are quite different from one another in every way. Thus you can choose a resort in Courcheval to suit your style and budget. Courchevel 1850 is the highest, largest and most famous, has an ambience of sophisticated chic and is a favorite with the Paris jet set. Courchevel Le Praz has a charming traditional village atmosphere and Courchevel 1550 is the family oriented ski resort. Courchevel 1650, Le Praz 1300 and La Tania offer their own unique flavors. Most of the accommodation here is ski-in/ski-out and although Courchevel has the reputation of being pricey, it is possible to enjoy a great skiing vacation here on a budget or relax in luxury.

Courchevel boasts modern, fast and efficient lift systems leading to the runs on various levels above the different resorts. Many of the runs are tree-lined, adding to the scenic beauty of the ski resort. The skiing above the various levels of Courchevel resort varies widely. Experts will enjoy all of the chutes dropping down from La Saulire, while beginners will enjoy the wide-open terrain below the Saulire cable car base station. Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens are the main attractions of Trois Vallees, and the slopes for all abilities available here are quite unmatched at any other ski resort. The runs here are always in an immaculate condition thanks to the use of over 470 snow cannons and 22 piste bashers. Moreover, the snowfall in the Courchevel area is perhaps more reliable than the rest of the Trois Vallees as most of the slopes are North facing.