Courchevel is not one resort but several, a collection of villages rising through the trees from the valley floor to the high, open slopes above. Each has its own character, its own pace and its own kind of guest, and choosing the right one is the first step in planning a week here. All are linked by the same lift system and share direct access to the vast Three Valleys, the largest connected ski area in the world, with more than 600 kilometres of pistes, so wherever you stay the whole domain is at your feet.
The numbers in each village’s name once referred to its altitude, and while the resort has since renamed some of them, locals and regulars still use the classic figures. Here is a guide to the four villages of Courchevel, to help you decide where to base your stay.
Courchevel 1850
The highest and most famous of the villages, and the address most people picture when they imagine Courchevel. This is the heart of the resort’s glamour: Michelin-starred restaurants, designer boutiques, exclusive nightlife and the greatest concentration of luxury chalets anywhere in the Alps. The skiing is superb and central, with lifts fanning out in every direction and the Saulire cable car opening the door to Meribel and beyond. The atmosphere is unmistakably international and the standard of service exceptional. If you want the very best of everything and the liveliest scene, 1850 is the place. Explore our chalets in Courchevel 1850.
Courchevel 1650 (Moriond)
Sunnier and more relaxed than its higher neighbour, Moriond has become a favourite with families and with those who prefer a gentler, more village-like feel without giving up quick access to the slopes. Its south-facing position means long, bright afternoons, and the pistes above it are wide, well-groomed and forgiving, ideal for mixed-ability groups and improving skiers. The restaurants and bars are welcoming rather than showy, and prices a little softer than in 1850. A smart choice for a family week. See our chalets in Courchevel 1650.
Courchevel 1550
Quieter again, 1550 sits just below 1850 and offers a calmer, more residential base, with a gondola linking it directly to the main village and slopes above in minutes. It suits families and groups who want peace and better value at the end of the day while remaining close to the action, and it has a genuine local feel that many guests come to love. Browse our chalets in Courchevel 1550.
Courchevel 1350
The lowest and most traditional of the villages, wrapped in trees and rich in old alpine character, with a tranquil, authentic atmosphere. Life here moves at an unhurried pace, and it appeals to those who value a sense of the real Savoie over the buzz higher up. The tree-lined runs are especially welcome in poor weather, and the rest of the resort is only a short ride away. Discover our chalets in Courchevel 1350.
Beyond Courchevel
Because Courchevel connects seamlessly into the Three Valleys, many guests also look to neighbouring Meribel, at the very heart of the domain, and to high-altitude, snow-sure Val Thorens. Both offer outstanding chalets and a slightly different character while keeping the whole ski area within reach, and both can be an excellent choice depending on your priorities for snow, scenery and pace.
Getting to Courchevel
Courchevel is among the most accessible of the high alpine resorts. Geneva, Lyon, Chambery and Grenoble airports are all within a two to three hour drive, and Courchevel has its own Altiport for private aircraft and helicopter transfers, which our concierge can arrange directly to the resort. A private driver from the airport is the most seamless option, and something we organise as a matter of course.
When to visit
The season runs from December to April. December brings festive sparkle and reliable early snow at altitude, February offers long days and the liveliest atmosphere, and March into April rewards guests with warmer sunshine, quieter slopes and spring skiing. Each has its own appeal, and we are happy to advise on the best week for your priorities.
Which village is right for you?
As a rule of thumb, choose 1850 for glamour and the finest addresses, 1650 for sunshine and a relaxed family feel, 1550 for a quieter and better-value base, and 1350 for tradition and calm. Whichever appeals, The S Collection can match you to the right chalet in the right village. Speak to our team and we will guide you to the perfect base for the week you have in mind.
