Courchevel in Winter

The Courchevel Valley is the ideal base for exploring the whole 3 Valleys ski area. You'll find gentle, tree-lined runs ideal for beginners with steeper blues and reds which allow mixed-ability groups to ski in the same area and of course plenty of blacks runs and great off-piste for the more advanced. The whole area is one giant natural fun park (snowparks and half pipes included!), and there really is something for everyone here. To help you navigate your way around this vast area, we have produced an insiders guide on some of the best skiing and boarding to be had, and where to feed those hungry stomachs whilst your on the mountain. Also in this section is some information on cross-country skiing in the valley, and features on how to improve your ski technique. And if you feel a bit 'all the gear but no idea', our articles on skis and snowboards will help you get a better understanding of the types of skis and snowboards available. ... see "Courchevel for Skiing & Snowboarding" for more

The Three Valleys is the home of eight ski resorts that are linked together by a unique network of ski lifts and ski runs. As implied by its name, the area originally consisted of three valleys: Saint-Bon (Courchevel & La Tania), Allues (Meribel & Brides-les- Bains), and Belleville (Val Thoren, Les Menuires & St Martin de Belleville). The skiing area has since been extended into a 'fourth' valley, the Maurienne valley that is adjacent to Val Thorens. The Maurienne valley can also be accessed using a long gondola lift from Orelle. The Three Valleys is the largest ski area in the world with 600km ski slopes which equates to 2,500 hectares of groomed runs. The snow cannon count currently lies at 1500! The area boasts 200 ski lifts that can transport 260,000 skiers hourly. Phew!

Everyone but a beginner should buy a Three Valley pass. It’s easy to get carried away and ski into the next valley without realizing it. Take note though, and make sure you don’t miss the last lifts back to your own valley at the end of the afternoon as a taxi home is expensive (lift closing times are printed on the lift map). ... see "Courchevel Skiing Revealed" for more

Courchevel forms part of the Three Valleys lift system, which is considered to be the most efficient overall lift system in France (200 ski lifts transport 260,000 skiers hourly!). With such an extensive lift network in operation both summer and winter, it makes sense that there are a wide range of lift pass options available for the skier or boarder, mountain biker and pedestrian. ... see "Courchevel Lift System & Passes" for more

There are heaps of events held throughout the year in Courchevel and the Three Valleys, ranging from small and quirky local festivals, to world renowned sporting events. Music festivals are also hugely popular during the summer months and provide a great excuse to make a quick trip out to the Alps. In this section, we bring you information about the major annual events in Courchevel, and don't forget to check out our weekly calender. ... see "Courchevel Events - Winter" for more

What's on this week in Courchevel > >

Courchevel sits in the heart of the infamous 3 Valleys ski area offering access to 600kms of marked piste skiing, and unlimited off piste terrain. The absolute creme de la creme of skiing, Courchevel is one of the most glamorous resorts in France, and offers some truly great skiing and boarding. ... see "Courchevel" for more

Never fear, there is plenty for non-skiers to do in the valley; whether you fancy an action packed weekend or a relaxing few days of pampering and shopping - Courchevel has it. ... see "Courchevel for the Non-Skier" for more

You will find that you barely need a car in Courchevel, with it's excellent free bus service. It's also worth checking with your tour operator to see if they offer a free minibus service to their clients. Information and timetables for the public transport system can be found in this section, along with parking information for car drivers. ... see "Courchevel Transport & Parking" for more

Courchevel prides itself on being a family resort and has the approval of the ‘Familie plus Montagne’ label, France’s first and only national tourism quality label. Therefore families with children can expect to find more in the way of activities and services developed with their needs in mind.

If you are holidaying 'en famille' you may be interested in the ‘Carte Loisirs’ leisure card. This can be purchased for 5 or 7 day periods and offers free entrance to the swimming pool, ice rink (skates included), ski lifts for the 3 Vallees, and the tennis courts (2 hours per week at off peak times). Other organisations within the valley offer a variety of discounts and special offers with the card so its always worth asking! It can be purchased from the swimming pool and Courchevel Tourisme. ... see "Courchevel for Families & Kids" for more

Have you literally got 'all the gear' but have no idea what to do with it?? Unless you want to look like Posh Spice on the slopes, knowing a bit about your skis/snowboards/bikes/transceivers etc will help you avoid being any old Wannabe... Having the right equipment for your chosen activity will help ensure that you get the best possible introduction to your sport (if you are a beginner), or speed along your learning curve if you are looking to improve. The easier and quicker you learn, the more pleasurable your experience will be! In this section, you will find guides to help you select the most appropriate gear for your sport and ability, as well as some insider knowledge on the "must have" kit for this coming season. ... see "All the Gear But No Idea...?" for more

The mountains provide a spectacular playground for skiers, climbers, mountaineers, yet their beauty can also be deadly. High mountain terrain can be subject to extreme weather conditions, rock falls and avalanches. You should always take note of safety warnings and we always recommend you hire a mountain guide when heading into high mountain terrain. Be aware and be safe! ... see "Avalanche Awareness" for more

The Courchevel ski App is now available on your iPhone! Everything you need to know and more about the Courchevel resort on the new iPhone application. Download it here or read on for more information >>>