Nestled in the centre of Courchevel Village, Apartment Kante enjoys a superior position within France's spectacular Vanoise massif. Also known as 1550 (after its altitude), the Village has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, a mix of traditional chalets and modern hotels, whilst local restaurants and hire shops dot the narrow streets. Less than 50m from the apartment, the Grangettes Gondola waits to transport you up to the resort's central lifts, where you can head off and explore the scenic mountain terrain.
Forming part of the Trois Vallées, Courchevel has a global reputation, with an impressive network of pistes to suit all abilities. Topping out at 2740m, the mostly north-facing slopes offer some of the finest powder in the world, and with daily grooming and an efficient lift system, there is plenty of opportunity to ski from dawn til dusk. At the top of the Saulire cable car, Grand Couloir is one of the steepest pistes in the Alps, or get up early to cut through the first snow on the Combe Saulire. A number of challenging blacks present varying conditions or hire a guide to head off-piste and unlock the valley's full potential. For those just starting out, Courchevel is an equally great resort, with large nursery areas and a series of dedicated beginner zones where you can develop confidence.
For non-skiers, purchase a pedestrian lift pass to enjoy the mountain setting, discover the area's many hiking trails, or simply stop at a slope-side restaurant to enjoy lunch in the sun. Accessed by a gondola from Moriond, Le Bel Air is a true classic, serving up wonderful Savoyard cuisine, which you can enjoy at one of the outdoor tables, whilst Le Pilatus offers an authentic charm and a spectacular view of Mont Blanc. Run by local brothers, La Cave des Creux is also a lovely spot with a well-put-together brasserie menu that makes the most of locally sourced produce.
For those looking to relax, a free shuttle runs to Aquamotion, where you can take a swim in the pool or soak tired muscles in a snow-lined jacuzzi. A wellness section invites you to indulge in a sauna or visit one of the local hotels where you can access some of the most exclusive spas in France.
The French Alps are also a treat during the summer months, with wild grasses and vibrant flowers springing up on the mountainside. Most of the lifts still operate during the season, enabling you to access the extensive network of hiking trails.
Challenging downhill routes make the area popular with mountain bikers, or have a go at Via Ferrata and scale the rocky faces helped along by bridges and ladders.
The Region
Courchevel is made up of six satellite villages, each with their own distinct style and atmosphere, and picturesque forest roads to lead you in-between. Most well known is the illustrious Courchevel 1850 with its reputation for exclusivity and an A-List clientele. 1850 is certainly the place to go for five-star hotels, swanky bars and extravagant nightlife.
The other Courchevel villages (such as Courchevel Moriond) have a much more laid back vibe and are certainly the more affordable choice.
The skiing in Courchevel is split into four levels and you can take an excellent free ski bus in between. At the resort itself you have 150 kilometres of pistes at your feet and while you can get a Courchevel lift-pass you can also ski the whole of the
3 Valleys with an area-pass. Since the slopes here face north, the snow at Courchevel is more reliable than elsewhere in the Three Valleys.
Courchevel pistes are absolutely unrivaled, meticulously maintained and perfectly positioned to align with the landscape.
With its highest lift at 2740m altitude, Courchevel is exceptionally good for high altitude skiing with incredible alpine views, and the most impressive runs are best suited for intermediate and advanced skiers.
But for the little ones just finding their snow legs, the resort has a fantastic children’s village where they can learn in a stress-free environment. Ski season here lasts until late April and even if you prefer not to ski at all, you’ll be well entertained with everything from scenic walks to classical music concerts.
In the evenings, the Courchevel night skies are lit up by spectacular firework displays that could get anyone in the mood for a night on the town. The bars here are a good mix of casual and upmarket, so there’s plenty for all tastes to enjoy when it comes to après-ski.
Courchevel also has a well-earned reputation for being the best ski resort when it comes to gastronomy.