Insider’s Guide to Destination for Skiers

Locating at one end of Trois Vallees, world’s largest lift-linked ski area Courchevel has a long stretch of pistes and around 170 lifts. Slopes at Courchevel are north-facing and it is the reason why its terrain is most loved by every ski lover. Those who come to explore Courchevel Valley do not have any reason to leave it despite of witnessing the rest of Trois Vallees.

Courchevel is a name given to four distinct resort villages- Courchevel 1850, Courchevel 1650, Courchevel 1550 and Courchevel 1300. These villages are connected by pistes, lifts and a breath-taking road paves its way up from Courchevel Le Praz (1300) to the highest resort Courchevel (1850) via Courchevel Moriond (1650) and bypassing Courchevel (1550).

One can enjoy an efficient and frequent free bus service and get delighted at pretty woodland sights. View from slopes is amazing as you can catch the overwhelming glimpses of Mont Blanc, Champagny and Bellecote.

Le Praz

Courchevel Le Praz (1300) is an old, pastoral yet serene and beautiful resort village. The main road at the periphery remains busy. The major landmark here is the ski jumping hill. It was built for 1992 Olympics and still holds importance in every season. To explore the different parts of the slopes, one can take a fast chairlift. Though the site has not much for shopaholics but there are some good food points where one can try lip-smacking dishes.

Village

Courchevel (1550) is set off the main road. It is a bit of a quiet backwoods reflecting a blend of chalets and some facilitated buildings. This village is linked to Courchevel (1850) by a gondola and chairlift.

Moriond

Though Moriond is set on the main road but traffic is not intrusive. Main lift base around central part of the village is dotted with some good shops, restaurants and bars. Facing the lift, there is a three-stage escalator serving the recently built chalets down the hill. A huge water sports centre has also been built in December 2015.

Courchevel (1850)

Flaunting with the admiring hillsides sights, Courchevel (1850) is the largest resort village. It is one of the prominent places where one can find rich Russians and Parisians blazing their cash. It also houses a large number of luxury lodges and ritzy hotels. It also has a couple of friendly supermarkets.

As this resort village caters to rich Russians and Parisians, it is considered as a very pricey resort. It is the only highest resort where prices are really high. Courchevel is known for the plush hotels. Other than Paris, it has the highest number of ‘Palace’ rating. However, one can easily find the affordable and modest lodgings at lower resorts.

Other Activities to Indulge

The Aqua Motion centre at Moriond (1650) is the major attraction for indoor and outdoor pools, a diving pool, surfing area, three lane water slide water rapids, saunas, steam room and climbing wall. In Courchevel (1850), one can find skating ring, gym, and fitness centre and spa facilities as provided by some hotels.

There is an exclusive pass for the pedestrians. The pass is applicable for ancient gondolas, cable cars and chairlifts. Travelers can also avail the free guide services from tourist office.

So, pack your bags and leave now.