Courchevel has long held a reputation as offering travelers an idyllic blend of gorgeous terrain, flawless snow, amazing food, active nightlife and stunning accommodations. Home to scores of ski chalets, it rates as one of the famous “Big 4” resorts and is linked directly to the Three Valleys (Trois Vallees) in the French Alps.
Noted as the gateway into the Three Valleys, it is often described as four separate villages, with Le Praz at the lowest region of the mountain, then Courchevel Village at 1550 meters, Courchevel Moriond at 1650 meters and Courchevel 1850 at the highest peak. It has more than 600km of pistes and over 170 lifts. With its northern facing orientation, the snows of the entire Courchevel area are frequently described as some of the finest.
A highly efficient shuttle service links all four villages, and a trip from bottom to top allows you to partake of stunning scenery. Essentially, a skier or group of skiers need never leave Courchevel to experience the very best skiing, but if you are eager to experience the finest chalets, it is towards the uppermost point of Courchevel that you must turn your attention.
Bottoms Up
While it is possible to find luxurious chalets in Le Praz and near Courchevel Village, a great deal of effort has been made to create a truly exclusive world within Courchevel Moriond and Courchevel 1850. While Moriond is a bit more of a quaint, mountain village center, with cozy and somewhat lively bars, Courchevel 1850 has become a well-known spot for the sophisticated, glitzy and exciting. With some of the best shops, bars, and restaurants, it also has some of the very finest chalets too.
Understanding Chalets
For the uninitiated, it is important to understand that premium ski chalets in Courchevel are each designed to offer comprehensive services, premium amenities, and even be a solution for a mixed group with ski enthusiasts and the decidedly non-skiing individuals.
Just consider that many of the Courchevel chalets have indoor and outdoor amenities. For example, it is not unusual for a chalet to feature a full ski room that opens to a piste or within minutes of a lift. The ground floor may also be a wellness level with indoor pool, hammam, fitness room, and treatment rooms for private spa options. There is also typically a full home theater along with a wide array of shared living spaces.
Consider that many Courchevel chalets have a great room with oversized fireplace, large dining room and splendid views of the mountains, which may be enjoyed from the inside or on one of the balconies. There will be everything from smaller lounges and libraries, lofts for teens, and private art collections to savor. Bedrooms are apt to be private and luxurious retreats, offering views, entertainment systems and spa like, ensuite baths.
Of course, one thing that makes the chalet life of Courchevel so utterly appealing is that many properties are fully staffed. A chalet might easily provide guests with round the clock services from a host, housekeeping team, and even chefs to prepare everything from morning coffee and afternoon teas to children’s dinner and multi-course gourmet meals. There is also usually a four-wheel-drive vehicle and chauffeur.
Because all of Courchevel was designed as the ultimate ski resort, all chalets have been conveniently placed. Whether you are directly on a slope, close to top pistes or just a short distance from the lifts, you will savor amazing views, services, amenities and skiing. Whether for a couple, small family or enormous gathering, the chalets of Courchevel offer a truly premium experience at any point along the mountain.