Essentials
Resort Altitude
1300m to 1850m
Snow Range
1224m to 3248m
The Mountain
Piste area - 600km
Black runs - 33
Red runs - 119
Blue runs - 183
Nursery slopes - 5
Mountain cafes - 43
Snow cannon - 500
Parks - 4
Pipes - 3
Transfers
Chambery - 110km - 1.5hrs
Geneva - 190km - 3hrs
Grenoble - 175km
Lyon - 185km - 2.5hrs
Ratings
Queues - 8
Lifts - 8
Cafes - 8
Snow - 8
Extent - 10
Transfer - 6
Charm - 4
Scenery - 6
Eating Out - 7
Apres Ski - 6
Resort Profile For Courchevel
Great skiing but bring your credit card!
Courchevel has the reputation as the world's best ski resort, attracting some of the wealthiest skiers, from the traditional Paris jet set to the nouveau-riche Russians. The ski area has something for everyone with high mountain bowls linked by long cruising pistes down to pretty tree-lined runs back to the resort. However, Courchevel's popularity through its image as the 'perfect ski resort' has its down-sides. Firstly, the pistes are very crowded, especially those close to the resort. Secondly, the prices. Courchevel has always been expensive and the recent influx of 'new money' has driven prices through the roof. The resort itself is made up of four distinct villages, all offering mainly high end accommodation with a good range of expensive bars and restaurants. 1850 is the largest village and has developed as the central focus for nightlife, while the lower villages have retained a more traditional and quieter feel.
Resort Pros
- Variety and extent of the ski area, plus access to the rest of the Three Valleys.
- Fast and efficient lift system.
- Plenty of ski-in, ski-out
Resort Cons
- Over crowded pistes.
- Poor value for money with mostly over priced hotels, restaurants and bars.
Best For
- Mixed ability groups - especially beginners and intermediate.
- Weekend millionaires.
Worst For
- Those looking for a traditional French ski resort.
- Those on a budget.
SlopeSeeker Tips
Head for the Combe de la Saulire red - one of the world's greatest intermediate runs. Check out the cheaper accommodation available in the villages beneath Courchevel 1850.